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Related Experiment Videos

The effect of marathon training upon menstrual function

M M Shangold, H S Levine

    American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
    |August 15, 1982
    PubMed
    Summary

    Female marathon runners experienced menstrual irregularities, including oligomenorrhea/amenorrhea, with thinness being a significant predictor. Pre-training menstrual patterns were the strongest indicator of menstrual health during training.

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    Area of Science:

    • Sports Medicine
    • Reproductive Endocrinology
    • Exercise Physiology

    Background:

    • Female athletes may experience menstrual dysfunction.
    • Understanding the relationship between athletic training and menstrual health is crucial.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the incidence of menstrual irregularities and infertility in female marathon runners.
    • To identify factors associated with menstrual dysfunction in this population.

    Main Methods:

    • A detailed questionnaire was administered to 1,841 women participating in the 1979 New York City Marathon.
    • Data collected included obstetric, gynecologic, and athletic histories, as well as height and weight.
    • Analysis focused on 394 respondents to determine menstrual patterns and associated factors.

    Main Results:

    • The incidence of oligomenorrhea/amenorrhea was 24% during training and 19% prior to training among respondents.
    • 10% of respondents reported infertility.
    • Amenorrheic women were significantly lighter and had lower weight/height ratios compared to regularly menstruating women.
    • Pre-training menstrual pattern was the best predictor of menstrual pattern during training.
    • Thinness was associated with amenorrhea, independent of training status.

    Conclusions:

    • Marathon training is associated with a notable incidence of menstrual irregularities in women.
    • Lower body weight and a history of irregular menses are significant risk factors for amenorrhea in female runners.
    • Pre-existing menstrual patterns are highly predictive of menstrual function during intense athletic training.

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