11/04/2025
Amenorrhea is the absence of menstruation, and it can be a key symptom of low energy availability and RED-S 🥀. This condition affects athletes, especially those in sports that emphasize lean body mass or endurance. When the body doesn't receive enough energy (calories) to meet its physiological needs, it can impact hormone production and disrupt menstrual cycles.
There are two main types of amenorrhea:
1. Primary Amenorrhea: This occurs when a teen hasn’t started menstruating by the age of 16 or within 3 years of their first signs of puberty (such as breast development). It may indicate underlying health issues like hormonal imbalances, excessive exercise, or nutritional deficiencies.
2. Secondary Amenorrhea: This is when a person who has already begun menstruating stops having periods for at least three consecutive months. It can be caused by several factors like excessive physical activity, low body weight, stress, or inadequate nutrition, all of which can contribute to low energy availability and RED-S. 🏃♀️🍽️
The connection to RED-S is crucial because this condition involves a mismatch between the energy you expend and the energy your body receives. It’s not just about eating less but about how your body is utilizing energy. If you don’t get enough fuel, your body may shut down non-essential functions, like menstruation, in order to conserve energy for critical systems like organ function 🫁.
The Effects of Amenorrhea in RED-S:
- Hormonal Imbalances: Low energy affects hormones like estrogen and progesterone, which are essential for regular menstrual cycles.
- Bone Health: A lack of estrogen over time can lead to decreased bone density, increasing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis 🦴.
-Infertility: Prolonged amenorrhea can impact your ability to conceive later on.
It’s important to listen to your body, ensure you're fueling correctly, and seek professional help if menstruation becomes irregular or stops entirely. Balance is key to maintaining both energy and overall health 💪.
