Intensity of jogging. Relationship with menstrual/reproductive variables
JOGN Nursing; Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic, and Neonatal Nursing
|November 1, 1984
Summary
High-intensity jogging is linked to menstrual irregularities like skipped or scant periods in women. However, it did not affect age at menarche, infertility, or uterine prolapse.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- The impact of intense physical activity on female reproductive health is a growing area of research.
- Understanding the relationship between exercise intensity and menstrual function is crucial for female athletes and active women.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between the intensity of jogging and various menstrual and reproductive factors in women.
- To determine if factors like age at menarche, infertility, and uterine prolapse are related to jogging intensity.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire-based survey was administered to 319 women participating in a running event (10 K and marathon).
- Data collected included details on jogging intensity and menstrual/reproductive health parameters.
Main Results:
- Significant correlations were found between jogging intensity and scant menstrual flow, skipped menses, and menstrual irregularity.
- No significant relationships were observed between jogging intensity and age at menarche, infertility, or uterine prolapse.
- 32% of participants reported reduced menstrual discomfort due to jogging, and 44% experienced improved performance during or between periods.
Conclusions:
- The intensity of jogging is significantly associated with menstrual irregularities in women.
- Jogging intensity does not appear to influence age at menarche, infertility, or uterine prolapse.
- Many women report positive effects of jogging on menstrual discomfort and performance.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Factors Influencing Heart Rate
The heart rate, or pulse rate, is a vital indicator of cardiovascular health. It reflects the number of times the heart beats per minute. Various physiological and environmental factors influence heart rate, increasing or decreasing cardiac output. Understanding these factors is crucial for assessing heart function and identifying potential health issues.
Let us explore the significant factors affecting heart rate, including age, body temperature, posture, acute pain, chemical influences,...
Let us explore the significant factors affecting heart rate, including age, body temperature, posture, acute pain, chemical influences,...
01:17Exercise and Cardiac Output
Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining cardiovascular health, with aerobic exercises being particularly effective. According to the American Heart Association, 150 minutes of moderate to intense aerobic exercise per week is recommended for a healthy heart. Aerobic activities may include brisk walking, running, bicycling, cross-country skiing, and swimming, ideally performed three to five times per week.
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be met...
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be met...
01:22Hormonal Regulation of the Menstrual Cycle
The ovarian cycle regulates endometrial changes throughout a single menstrual cycle via the coordinated action of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and gonadotrophins.
At puberty, GnRH begins a pulsatile release pattern, which triggers the anterior pituitary gland to secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The frequency and amplitude of GnRH pulses vary across the menstrual cycle, with faster pulses favoring LH release and slower pulses favoring FSH release.
At puberty, GnRH begins a pulsatile release pattern, which triggers the anterior pituitary gland to secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The frequency and amplitude of GnRH pulses vary across the menstrual cycle, with faster pulses favoring LH release and slower pulses favoring FSH release.
01:27Ovarian Cycle
The menstrual cycle includes a critical component known as the ovarian cycle, which undergoes two main phases each month—the follicular phase and the luteal phase. The follicular phase is variable and averaging around 14 days. Ovulation, triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), marks the transition between the two phases. The second phase, the luteal phase, is relatively consistent, lasting approximately 14 days, and is marked by the activity of the corpus luteum. While a cycle length...
01:19The Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle is a recurrent sequence of changes in the uterine endometrium, specifically its functional layer, the stratum functionalis. This cycle prepares the uterus for potential pregnancy. This cycle typically spans 21–35 days, averaging 28 days, and aligns with the ovarian cycle, regulated by fluctuating levels of ovarian hormones, primarily estrogen and progesterone.
The menstrual phase occurs from days 1 to 5 and involves the shedding of the stratum functionalis, as a uterine...
The menstrual phase occurs from days 1 to 5 and involves the shedding of the stratum functionalis, as a uterine...
01:19Cardiac Output I:Effect of Heart Rate on Cardiac Output
Cardiac Output
Cardiac output (CO) refers to the total amount of blood ejected by one of the ventricles in liters per minute (L/min). In a resting adult, CO ranges from 5 to 6 L/min, adjusting according to the body's metabolic requirements.
Effect of Heart Rate on Cardiac Output
Cardiac output adapts to metabolic demands during stress, physical activity, or illness. The autonomic nervous system regulates heart rate via the sinoatrial node. The parasympathetic nervous system decreases heart rate...
Cardiac output (CO) refers to the total amount of blood ejected by one of the ventricles in liters per minute (L/min). In a resting adult, CO ranges from 5 to 6 L/min, adjusting according to the body's metabolic requirements.
Effect of Heart Rate on Cardiac Output
Cardiac output adapts to metabolic demands during stress, physical activity, or illness. The autonomic nervous system regulates heart rate via the sinoatrial node. The parasympathetic nervous system decreases heart rate...