Determinants of menstrual dysfunction in the Female Athlete Triad: a cross-sectional study in Italian athletes
Abstract
BACKGROUND
In 1992 the American College of Sports Medicine first described the Female Athlete Triad. The Triad is a metabolic injury involving three distinct clinical traits: low energy availability, with possible eating disorder, low bone mineral density and menstrual dysfunction (MD). Although the estimated prevalence of the Triad is low (1.2%), single factors are common in female athletes, at all competitive levels and ages. Even though the Triad was described over two decades ago, the interrelation of the three diagnostics components is still debated: additional evidence is required to improve the multidisciplinary treatment approach for this complex condition. MD is one of the first signs of energy impairment. The present study aims at investigating MD determinants and predictors in female athletes, to allow an early diagnosis of the Triad and to implement adequate preventive strategies.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
An original structured questionnaire was composed to detect the presence of MD risk factors. Included participants were active female athletes within reproductive age range (15-40 years old). Anthropometric parameters and training-related factors, possibly affecting the regularity of the menstrual cycle, were investigated.
RESULTS
Respondents were 288 female athletes. Among them, 73.3% were under 25 years of age; 6.6% resulted underweight; 30.6% reported to follow a meal plan/diet and 13.9% declared to be a smoker. Lean sports were practiced by 30.6% of responders.…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause.
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