The female microbiome

Abstract

The human body is colonized by billions of microorganisms. The oral cavity, intestinal tract, genital tract, and skin provide different conditions and harbor specific microorganisms. These organisms, combined with their products, human tissue characteristics, and immune response are responsible for proper functioning of these systems. The term “microbiome” summarizes the unique environment of microorganisms, their products, and interaction with human cells. The first colonization by microorganisms takes place at birth and is constantly being shaped throughout life. Environmental factors and especially hormonal changes during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause impact the composition and function of the body site-specific microbiomes. The intestinal microbiome develops in infancy, while the vaginal microbiome starts to be dominated by Lactobacillus spp. as puberty sets in. In later adulthood and after menopause, the diversity of the intestinal microorganisms diminishes and the vaginal niche returns to a pre-puberty like environment as estrogen levels drop. Independent of the region, the microbiome represents an individual fingerprint shaped by genetic predisposition, environment, and age.