Women in Sport Flashcards
Between what ages does menses usually begin?
9-15 years
What effect does exercise have on menstruation?
Minimises dysmenorrhoea (menstrual pain) and premenstrual discomfort (fluid retention, breast discomfort & anxiety)
What can dysmenorrhoea include?
Uterine contractions, nausea/vomitting, frequent bowel movements, intestinal cramping, dizziness, fainting/paleness
What is dysmenorrhoea caused by?
Changes in central neurotransmitters, endorphins and prostaglandins (mediators of uterine pain)
How is dysmenorrhoea treated?
With NSAIDs, or minimised by regular oral contraception
What is eumenorrhoea?
Regular menses occurring at intervals of 21-35 days, good oestrogen levels
What is oligomenorrhoea?
Irregular menses occurring at intervals of 35-90 days, declining oestrogen levels
What is amenorrhoea?
No menses for 3 consecutive months no more than 3 times per year, oestrogen levels dangerously low
What are the two types of amenorrhoea?
Primary: delayed onset of menarche (>16 years)
Secondary: menses has been established, but has stopped
In what athletes are menstrual changes most common?
Distance runners, dancers & gymnasts (1 in 3)
True or false: Recreational & anaerobic sports indicate no menstrual difference from sedentary women
True
What are the associations with amenorrhoea?
Anabolic steroid use, under 25 years, never pregnant, hypercarotenaemia, emotionally stress, low body weight, low % body fat
Is athlete amenorrhoea a benign condition?
No, athletes with menstrual disturbances require counselling
Why does oestrogen deprivation increase bone resorption & decrease bone mass?
Because oestrogen inhibits osteoclast activity
What is the rate of bone loss associated with any menses cessation?
Up to 5% per annum for approx the first 5 years, then rate of loss slows
