Exercise-induced menstrual irregularities

Exercise of sufficient rigor, particularly when coupled by weight loss and dietary restriction, is capable of producing reversible disturbances of reproductive function in many otherwise healthy women. However, it is clear that there are many health benefits for women who exercise regularly and in moderation. These include improved cardiovascular status, increased bone mineral content, improvement of dysmenorrhea and premenstrual syndrome symptoms, and general stress reduction. In addition, the inclusion of young women in high school and college athletics has provided many new opportunities. With these new opportunities, however, have come new challenges for physicians in assisting these women in maintaining optimal health.