Female Athlete Triad

Question 1

Female Athlete Triad - Concept

Answer 1

A relationship between menstrual cycle and bone mineral density

Question 2

Female Athlete Triad - Parts

Answer 2

• Low energy availability
• Osteoporosis
• Amenorrhea

Question 3

Amenorrhea - Menstrual Cycle

Answer 3

Eumenorrhea: ovulatory cycle with menses occuring every 24-34 days

Oligomenorrhea: irregular menses occuring more than 35 days and less than 90 days apart

Amenorrhea: no menses for at least 90 days

Question 4

Bone Regulation :

Osteoclasts & Osteoblasts

Answer 4

Osteoclasts: cells that break down bone
Osteoblasts: cells that build bone

Question 5

Importance of Estrogen

Answer 5

• Suppresses bone resorption (suppressing osteoclast)

- Allows skeleton to ‘hear’ physical activity (bone gain)

Question 6

Whos is at risk?

Answer 6

• Sports that are subjectively assessed
• Sports that emphasize low body weight
• Sports that require revealing clothing
• Sports that use weight classes

Question 7

Risk factors for Triad

Answer 7

• Calorie restriction
• Exercise for prolonged periods of time
• Involved in sport emphasizing body appearance
• Pressure to lose weight to improve performance
• Competitive nature
• Complete involvement with sport
• Trains even when injured or sick
• Traumatic event, injury, poor performance,
change in coaching personnel
• Other life stressors

Question 8

Symptoms of Triad

Answer 8

• Menstrual irregularities
• Fatigue
• Problems controlling body temperature
• Problems with sleep
• Reduced bone mass
• Frequent injuries