Exercise-related female reproductive dysfunction

Clinical or biochemical abnormalities of gonadal function, consisting of de layed puberty, luteal phase deficiency, oligo-amenorrhea or anovulation, oc cur in girls and women participating in strenuous sports. The evidence of a causal relationship between athletic activity and menstrual dysfunction ha s led to increased interest, also because the number of women who practice sports has increased rapidly. The pathogenesis of exercise-related female r eproductive dysfunction (ERFRD) is not completely clarified. The heterogene ity of sports practice, the role of overtraining and other factors, as adeq uate calorie balance or the assumption of exogenous steroids, could play a primary role in the comprehension of the pathogenic mechanisms of reproduct ive dysfunction. The interest of physicians about ERFRD is also due to the consequences of reduced gonadal function on women's health. Apart from some short-term transient effects (i.e. on muscle, genito-urinary tract or beha vior), hypoestrogenemia can induce longterm deleterious effects, as prematu re osteoporosis and lifelong impairment of skeletal structure. In view of t he possible short-term (infertility) and longterm (osteoporosis) consequenc es of ERFRD, correct physical training and adequate diet approach are manda tory to prevent or to revert neuroendocrine abnormalities so frequently rep orted in girls and women participating in recreational or competitive athle tic activities. (C) 2001, Editrice Kurtis.