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The female athlete. Before and beyond puberty
Donald E Greydanus1, Dilip R Patel
1Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, Michigan State University College of Human Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, USA. greydanus@kcms.msu.edu
Pediatric Clinics of North America
|July 18, 2002
Summary
Female athletes are increasingly participating in sports, with this review covering historical, psychological, and physiological aspects. It addresses common health concerns like menstrual issues, anemia, incontinence, and injuries in female athletes.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Female Athlete Health
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- The 20th century saw growing acceptance of female athletes across all sports levels.
- Understanding the unique health considerations for female athletes is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of female sports participation.
- To discuss the psychologic and physiologic aspects of female athletes.
- To highlight key gynecologic and health issues relevant to female athletes.
Main Methods:
- Historical perspective on female sports participation.
- Review of psychologic and physiologic factors.
- Discussion of adolescent gynecology, including menstrual and breast issues, and pregnancy.
- Examination of iron deficiency anemia, stress urinary incontinence, and sports injuries.
Main Results:
- Female athletic participation has a significant history and continues to grow.
- Psychological and physiological factors play a role in female athletic performance and health.
- Specific health concerns such as menstrual irregularities, anemia, incontinence, and injuries are prevalent.
Conclusions:
- Female athletes face distinct health challenges that require specific attention.
- A holistic approach considering gynecologic, nutritional, and injury-related aspects is necessary for female athletes.
- Further research and clinical focus are needed to optimize the health and performance of female athletes.