Body-fat measurements and athletic menstrual irregularity

Area of Science:

• Sports Medicine
• Exercise Physiology
• Reproductive Health

Background:

• Athletic menstrual irregularity (AMI) is a concern in female athletes.
• Previous research suggested a link between low body fat and AMI.
• The measurement methods for body fat may influence observed associations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare four body fat estimation methods.
• To determine if the association between body fat and AMI is measurement-dependent.
• To investigate factors related to AMI in marathon runners.

Main Methods:

• A sample of 112 marathon runners was studied.
• Menstrual cycle regularity was self-reported.
• Body fat was estimated using four different methods.
• Statistical analysis was performed to identify significant relationships.

Main Results:

• None of the four body fat estimation methods supported a relationship between low body fat and menstrual irregularity.
• A significant relationship (p < .001) was found between prior menstrual irregularity and the development of AMI.
• 32% of the 94 surveyed runners reported irregular or absent menses.

Conclusions:

• Body fat estimates did not correlate with athletic menstrual irregularity in this cohort.
• Pre-existing menstrual irregularity is a significant predictor of developing AMI.
• Further research should explore other contributing factors to AMI.