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Gut-Ovarian Axis

Meaning

The Gut-Ovarian Axis is a conceptual endocrine and metabolic signaling pathway that describes the bidirectional communication and functional interdependence between the intestinal microbiota and the female reproductive system, particularly the ovaries. This axis highlights how the composition and metabolic activity of the gut microbiome can influence circulating sex hormone levels, ovarian function, and overall reproductive health. Dysbiosis, or an imbalance in the gut flora, is clinically implicated in conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and infertility.