Aging in women – The microbiome perspective

Menopause is a hallmark of women's aging and is frequently portrayed as a medical issue. It also encompasses social and biological aspects often neglected and not well-understood, leaving women with insufficient support and attention. With the decline in estrogen levels, starting years before menopause is fully established, women experience various physical symptoms, and the risk of many age-related diseases increases sharply soon after these hormonal changes occur. Notably, these hormonal shifts also significantly impact the vaginal and gut microbiomes, contributing to dysbiosis and influencing the onset and progression of several diseases. Here, we examined the complex and dynamic relationship among aging, menopause, and microbiome changes with a particular focus on the vaginal and gut ecosystems. Emerging research highlights diet as a potential modulator for maintaining microbiome health during menopause. A deeper understanding of microbiome changes across life stages suggests the potential for microbiome-targeted strategies to support well-aging in women.