Exercise and the elderly

The reproductive dysfunctions seen with exercise are reviewed. The three salient problems discussed are delayed menarche, secondary amenorrhea, and cycle dysfunction (including shortened luteal or prolonged follicular phases). These problems are probably multifactorial in origin and are not caused by exercise alone. The multiple physiologic changes seen in pregnancy are influenced by an exercise load. No long-term effects of exercise in pregnancy have been documented, although areas of concern are reviewed.