In recent years, science has uncovered something many women with endometriosis already suspected: your gut health plays a major role in your symptoms. From chronic bloating and inflammation to hormonal imbalance and fatigue — your gut and endometriosis are more connected than you might think.
If you’ve been battling painful periods, digestive issues, and unexplained fatigue, the problem might not be just in your pelvis — it could be in your gut too.
Let’s break down what the “gut-endo axis” is and how conditions like SIBO, leaky gut, and an imbalanced microbiome could be silently worsening your endometriosis symptoms — plus what you can do to support healing from within.
🧬 What’s the Gut-Endo Axis?
The gut-endo axis refers to the relationship between the gut microbiome and endometriosis symptoms. Your gut is home to trillions of microbes that influence digestion, immunity, inflammation, and — importantly — estrogen metabolism.
In women with endometriosis, studies have found an imbalance in gut bacteria, often called gut dysbiosis. This imbalance may:
- Trigger chronic inflammation
- Disrupt estrogen breakdown, leading to excess circulating estrogen
- Increase pain sensitivity through the nervous system
- Contribute to fatigue, brain fog, and mood changes
🚨 Could SIBO Be Causing Your “Endo Belly”?
Many women with endometriosis experience extreme bloating — often called “endo belly.” In some cases, this could be caused by SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth).
SIBO happens when bacteria that belong in your large intestine move into your small intestine, where they ferment food and produce gas. This leads to:
- Bloating after meals
- Gas, cramps, and indigestion
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Nutrient deficiencies
Women with endometriosis are significantly more likely to have SIBO, and treating it may reduce bloating and inflammation.
🛡️ Leaky Gut & Endometriosis: The Inflammation Link
Leaky gut, or increased intestinal permeability, happens when the gut lining becomes damaged. This allows unwanted substances like bacteria and toxins to “leak” into the bloodstream, activating the immune system.
In women with endometriosis, this can mean:
- Worsening pelvic pain
- Autoimmune-like symptoms
- Chronic fatigue and brain fog
- Difficulty managing flare-ups
Healing a leaky gut often involves removing inflammatory foods, repairing the gut lining, and restoring microbial balance.
🥦 Diet, Probiotics & Healing from Within
Food and lifestyle play a huge role in managing both endometriosis and gut health. Here’s what can help:
✅ What to eat more of:
- Anti-inflammatory foods: Berries, leafy greens, turmeric, flaxseeds, wild-caught salmon
- Probiotic-rich foods: Yogurt (dairy-free if needed), sauerkraut, kefir, kimchi
- Prebiotic fiber: Garlic, onions, oats, bananas
- Healthy fats: Avocados, olive oil, chia seeds
❌ What to reduce or avoid:
- Refined sugar
- Ultra-processed foods
- Gluten (if sensitive)
- Alcohol and excess caffeine
- Dairy (may trigger inflammation in some)
Working with a specialist can help create a gut-healing plan tailored to your endometriosis symptoms.
Looking for Endometriosis Care in Mumbai?
If you’re dealing with both endometriosis and gut issues like bloating or digestive discomfort, it’s important to consult a specialist who understands this whole-body connection.
Dr. Shinjini Pande, a leading gynecologist and laparoscopic surgeon at Nalini Speciality Hospital, Goregaon, offers personalized care for endometriosis patients — including those dealing with complex cases involving digestive symptoms, fertility concerns, or advanced-stage endo.
She combines medical expertise with a holistic mindset, ensuring that patients receive the most up-to-date, compassionate care.