Fecal Microbiota Transplant (FMT)

What is a fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT)?

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is a procedure where healthy carefully‑screened donor’s stool (and its diverse community of beneficial microbes) is therapeuticically transferred into the gastrointestinal tract of a patient. The goal is to restore a healthy gut microbiome that can out‑compete Clostridioides difficile and other pathogens.

When is FMT used?

FMTs are used primarily for patients with ≥ 2 recurrences of C. difficile infection (CDI) who have failed standard antibiotic therapy, or for fulminant cases not responding to medication.

How is FMT delivered?

FMTs can be delivered via colonoscopy, naso‑enteric tube, retention enema, or encapsulated oral formulations.

How can I get a FMT?

The first step is to schedule a FREE 10-MIN PHONE CALL to get more information and see if Sun Valley Natural Medicine is a good fit for you.

FMT is available for those residing in or visiting Idaho via an in person or virtual consultation. If you have recurrent C. difficile you may qualify for FMT.

Who qualifies for FMT?

To be eligible for a fecal microbiota transplant (FMT) proof of relapse from a C. difficile infection or an emergent condition resulting in difficulty recovering from a C. difficile infection is required.

If you have had C. difficile and will be taking antibiotics or have an upcoming surgery, we can discuss ways to prevent C. difficile and develop a relationship so that FMT may be available to you as necessary.

How do I take a FMT from Sun Valley Natural Medicine?

The oral FMT capsules being used are white, without taste or odor, and are typically taken on an empty stomach with water or another clear liquid. Taking this type of FMT is similar to other supplements you may have taken before.

A total of 70 capsules is most frequently recommended, however this is determined on a case by case basis.

Is oral FMT therapy effective?

Yes! Oral FMT is as effective as delivery by colonoscopy, nasogastric tube, or retention enema with the benefit of be administered with minimal intervention and risk.

Is oral FMT therapy safe?

Yes! Oral FMT has a high safety profile. Very few serious adverse events have been recorded from FMTs of any delivery route. Most side effects are minimal and include abdominal bloating, gas, and changes in stool habits.

How much does oral FMT therapy cost?

The average total cost of oral FMT administration is typically $5,050. This includes your initial visit, oral FMT capsules, and shipping fees. The amount of FMT required for treatment may vary and price is subject to change based on individual requirements that will be determined at the time of your visit. Additional materials may also be required as an added expense.

What if I don’t have Clostridioides difficile (C. diff), is FMT still available?

If you do not have C. difficile we are able to discuss alternative methods to improve the health of your microbiome and gastrointestinal health. One option is a sterile FMT alternative.

If you have a history of C. difficile we can discuss how to prevent a relapse and improve GI health through individualized nutrition, lifestyle, and supplementation plans. We can also create a plan to receive FMT in case of a relapse due to antibiotic use, surgery, etc.

What does C. difficile poop smell and look like?

The smell of C. difficile poop is often described as “overpoweringly foul,” “barnyard/horse manure,” or “rotting meat.” While the stool is typically yellow-green or light brown, watery or soupy in consistency (≥ 3 unformed stools in 24 h), and may contain mucus. *The odor and appearance alone are not diagnostic, testing is required.

How common are C. difficile infections?

C. diff infections are estimated to affect about 500,000 people in the US annually. 

What is post-infectious IBS (PI-IBS)?

PI‑IBS is a functional bowel disorder that can develop weeks to months after an acute GI infection, including CDI.

• Prevalence: 10–25 % of patients recovering from CDI develop PI‑IBS‑like symptoms.

• Symptoms: Bloating, crampy abdominal pain, urgency, and diarrhea or mixed bowel habits, often triggered by meals or stress.

• Duration: Median course ~1–3 years with ~50 % improving within 12 months, though some patients experience persistent symptoms > 5 years.

What if my health has not recovered from a C. difficile infection, post-infectious IBS (PI-BS)?

Post Infectious IBS is extremely common in C. difficile patients. Imagine, if you broke your ankle you would use crutches and rest it until it has time to heal. You certainly would not be able to go for a run! When we have an injury to our GI track, we are not able to rest because we need to eat and our GI tract must perform many other functions. This slows healing and PI-IBS can remain for 8 years after an infection.

Dr. Mollie frequently works with patients to improve their post infectious IBS after a C. difficile infection to improve healing time by creating an individualized health plan to help the gut heal post-infection.

Additionally, Dr. Mollie is available to advise if you need to take additional antibiotics, what to do if you have an upcoming surgery, or are concerned of a C. difficile relapse.