The gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in human health, influencing diverse physiological processes, including those related to sexual health. Emerging evidence suggests a bidirectional relationship between the gut microbiota and sexual health, mediated by its impact on systemic inflammation, hormonal regulation, and immune function. A balanced gut microbiota supports optimal levels of sex hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone, which are critical for sexual function and reproductive health. Additionally, gut-derived metabolites such as short-chain fatty acids contribute to maintaining mucosal barrier integrity and regulating immune responses, which are essential for protecting against infections that may impair sexual health. Conversely, dysbiosis, an imbalance in gut microbial composition, has been linked to conditions such as erectile dysfunction, polycystic ovary syndrome, and reduced libido, emphasizing its role in sexual dysfunction. Lifestyle factors, including diet, stress, and antibiotic use, can modulate the gut microbiota and, consequently, sexual health outcomes. Recent therapeutic approaches, such as probiotics, prebiotics, and fecal microbiota transplantation, offer potential for restoring gut balance and improving sexual health. This review highlights the central role of the gut microbiota in sexual health, emphasizing its importance as a target for therapeutic interventions to enhance overall well-being.
World journal of gastrointestinal pathophysiology. 2025 Sep 22 [Epub]
Giuseppe Marano, Maria B Anesini, Miriam Milintenda, Mariateresa Acanfora, Claudia d'Abate, Francesco M Lisci, Ilaria Pirona, Gianandrea Traversi, Roberto Pola, Eleonora Gaetani, Marianna Mazza
Department of Neurosciences, Unit of Psychiatry, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome 00168, Italy., Department of Psychiatry, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome 00168, Italy., Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena 53100, Tuscany, Italy., Istituto di Patologia Speciale Medica, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome 00168, Lazio, Italy., Unit of Medical Genetics, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Fatebenefratelli Isola Tiberina-Gemelli Isola, Rome 00186, Italy., Division of Internal Medicine, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome 00168, Italy., Medical and Surgical Sciences, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome 00168, Italy., Department of Neurosciences, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome 00168, Italy. .