Menopause and gastrointestinal health and disease

Abstract

Menopause has far-reaching effects on human physiology, including the gastrointestinal tract, and can negatively influence the quality of life of women who are affected. Menopause can have multiple effects on gastrointestinal function, including altering gut motility and changing the composition of the gut microbiota. As a result, some gastrointestinal and hepatic conditions are more common among individuals in peri- and postmenopause, and people with these conditions before menopause might also experience greater symptom severity and worse health-related quality of life during this time. The use of hormone replacement therapy to treat menopausal symptoms might also affect gastrointestinal health and well-being. Individuals in postmenopause are at risk for bone remodelling and osteoporosis due to ageing and loss of sex hormones. However, secondary osteoporosis can also occur due to medications used to treat gastrointestinal conditions (for example, glucocorticoids and other immunosuppressive medications) and the conditions themselves (for example, autoimmune disease or coeliac disease). Although all people who menstruate will eventually transition to menopause, there are relatively few studies evaluating the effect of menopause on gastrointestinal symptoms and quality of life. This Review aims to summarize available evidence and highlight areas where research is needed.