Menstrual problems in young female athletes

Menstrual disorders are a common condition in female athletes. This may be a sign that the body is not provided with adequate energy, high intensity exercise causes hormonal disturbances. This seriously affects reproductive health in women, even causing infertility.

The sexual function of healthy women depends on three organs: hypothalamus - pituitary gland - ovaries.
The hypothalamus initiates the reproductive cycle by sending gonadotropin-releasing hormone (Gn-RH), which prompts the pituitary gland to release follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). As these follicles mature, they secrete estrogen. When this happens, estrogen levels rise and notify the hypothalamus and pituitary gland that ovulation is about to begin.
Meanwhile, the pituitary gland is producing another hormone called luteinizing hormone (LH). Shortly before ovulation, high levels of LH promote ovulation. In addition to estrogen, the empty follicle begins to produce the hormone progesterone, which prepares the uterus for pregnancy.
If the released egg is not fertilized within 12 to 24 hours, the egg will dissolve into the lining of the uterus and be released during menstruation. After menstruation, estrogen and progesterone levels drop again, which triggers the hypothalamus to again secrete FSH, starting a new cycle.

Amenorrhea is a common condition among female athletes. When the body is not provided with enough nutrients, it will lead to amenorrhea due to the inhibition of Gn-RH production with effects on the pituitary gland and ovaries. This causes the LH surge of the midcapsule to not take place, the follicles do not develop normally, and the production of estrogen decreases. This condition can lead to amenorrhea in women.
For some girls who start exercising at an early age, intense exercise combined with inadequate nutrition can lead to delayed puberty. Girls who have not had their first menstrual period by the age of 15 are diagnosed with primary amenorrhea. If you don't have three periods in a row after starting a regular menstrual cycle, it's called secondary amenorrhea. A menstrual cycle that lasts more than 35 days is a condition of low menstrual flow.
Physical and mental stress can cause hormonal abnormalities. When that happens, the body will release higher levels of hormones like cortisol and catecholamines (chemicals that affect the nervous system). In addition, the production of growth hormone may decrease. All of these changes negatively affect the menstrual cycle.

Affects reproductive function
Menstruation for female athletes affects the training process such as: Mood swings, cramps, abdominal pain, bloating,... However, late status Menstruation causes serious consequences for them, even infertility.
Many athletes probably don't consider pregnancy or childbirth. However, for those who are planning to have a baby, be careful about the menstrual cycle because it can interfere with this pregnancy.
Low bone density
One of the consequences of a missed period is affecting bone density. About 1/2 of a woman's peak bone mass is acquired during adolescence, with the greatest increase between 11 and 14 years of age.
Many factors contribute to bone density and one of them is estrogen. Women with chronically low estrogen levels due to amenorrhea are at increased risk for osteoporosis and failure to achieve peak bone mass. Abnormal production of cortisol and growth hormone can occur as a result of physical and mental stress during exercise.
It is clear that weak bone structure can increase the risk of injury in the short term. Two factors amenorrhea and a high exercise regimen can increase the risk of fractures.

According to experts, most female athletes just need to increase or exceed normal energy consumption to maintain a normal menstrual cycle. They just need to eat enough, not necessarily too much. Here are some expert tips to help female athletes balance hormones and stabilize the menstrual cycle:
Eat enough meals and get enough nutrition Diet has a big impact on the menstrual cycle moon. Athletes in general and female athletes in particular should ensure that they eat enough meals with nutritional groups. Even if you are not hungry, you should still get enough nutrients for your body. When you go out to eat, you should also choose nutritious foods.
Each athlete's work schedule is often busy and sometimes forgets to eat. Therefore, it is essential to prepare and stock up on healthy snacks. You can replenish energy at any time. Some nutritious snacks such as: Fruits, salads, yogurt, cheese, crackers....
Should have a positive attitude towards foods Many athletes show signs of eating disorders such as: Having a strict diet, being confident or obsessing about weight. This seriously affects the health and hormones of female athletes.
Avoid overtraining Hormones are very sensitive to changes in the body. Excessive exercise can cause hormonal imbalance. Therefore, when there are signs of menstrual disorder such as: late period, missed period, menorrhagia, .. you should reduce or stop exercising until the menstrual cycle returns to normal.


Maintain a good night's sleep The benefits of a good night's sleep help to refresh the mind and healthier body. This is the time needed for the body to recharge after a stressful day both physically and mentally. It also gives the brain time to encode and reconstruct memories.
In adolescents and young adults, deep sleep plays a role in the secretion of growth hormone. On the other hand, lack of sleep reduces concentration and ability to perform complex tasks.
Stress management The work nature of female athletes is often very stressful and stressful. Therefore, most athletes will fall into a state of stress and anxiety. This can negatively affect hormone production and cause menstrual disturbances.
Therefore, female athletes should try to stay optimistic and relax. Spend more time chatting, traveling with family and friends.
Regular periodic health check-ups Most athletes are required to have regular health check-ups every 3 - 6 months. Experts will monitor, identify potential health problems and provide effective solutions.
The examination process for female athletes will have the participation of many specialists such as: Nutrition, psychology,...
Vinmec has general health checkup packages suitable for each age. , gender and individual needs of customers with a reasonable price policy, including:
Vip general health checkup package Special general health checkup package Standard general health checkup package Patient examination results sick will be returned home. After receiving the results of the general health examination, if you detect diseases that require intensive examination and treatment, you can use services from other specialties at the Hospital with quality treatment and services. outstanding customer service.

Reference source: mayoclinic.org