What role does Helicobacter play in Wechseljahre?

Helicobacter pylori is a bacterium that colonizes the stomach lining and can cause inflammation, ulcers, and nutrient malabsorption. In menopause (Wechseljahre), it has no directly proven role in hormonal changes or weight management. However, chronic infection may impair absorption of iron, vitamin B12, and folate—nutrients critical during menopause. Deficiencies can contribute to fatigue, mood swings, and weight gain. H. pylori also alters the gut microbiome, which may indirectly affect metabolism and estrogen regulation. The evidence is mostly mechanistic and insufficient to claim a causal link. MyBody-X tests can detect H. pylori, but a positive result does not automatically require treatment. If symptoms like heartburn, bloating, or unexplained nutrient deficiencies occur, medical evaluation is warranted. Eradication therapy may improve nutrient status, but direct effects on menopause symptoms or weight are not established.