$Unique_ID{BRK01570}
$Pretitle{Genitourinary System}
$Title{Irregular Menstrual Periods in Young Women Athletes}
$Subject{exercise menses amenorrhea}
$Volume{J-23}
$Log{
The Menstrual Cycle*0009101.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Irregular Menstrual Periods in Young Women Athletes


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QUESTION:  Some of the women in my runner's club tell of not having a
menstrual period for some time now.  They know it is due to their regular
exercise program but they are uncertain of the proper treatment.  What is your
advice to such young women athletes?

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ANSWER:  Irregular or absent menstrual periods in women who train especially
hard in athletics is not unusual.  However, the condition, called "athletic
amenorrhea", is not well understood.  Only in the last several years have
physicians begun to realize that the condition can create some real problems,
starting with a low level of estrogen.  As a result of the low estrogen
levels, menstrual cycles are disrupted, bones become fragile, and fertility
declines.  Once thought to be reversible, we now know that this condition can
cause permanent damage.
     The most disturbing problem is the fragile bones, which can cause
fractures and other injuries.  Osteoporosis, once seen only in older,
menopausal women, is now showing up among athletic young women.
     Researchers have tackled the problem of athletic amenorrhea in the last
three years, but little is known about what causes it or how to treat it.
We're learning more about it as the research progresses, but there is still
considerable debate among physicians about how it should be treated.  Some
believe very strongly in estrogen replacement therapy, often in the form of
birth control pills.  Others advocate weight gain and decreasing the intensity
of exercise.  Still others say there is not yet enough research to warrant
treating the problem at all.
     My advice to the young woman athlete is to cut back on your training if
your menstrual cycle becomes disrupted.  Regular cycles indicate a healthy
hormonal function, and this is essential for your continued good health.  When
your cycle becomes irregular or your periods become very light, your body is
signaling you that there is a problem.  And, when there's a problem with your
body, you're wise to do what you can to fix it.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
