A common concern among active women, exercise-induced amenorrhoea refers to the cessation of menstrual periods due to intense physical activity coupled with inadequate calorie intake. While engaging in regular exercise is essential for overall health, excessive workouts without sufficient rest and nutrition can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to missed periods and potential health complications.
Recognizing Symptoms: Identifying signs of exercise-induced amenorrhoea is crucial for timely intervention. Common symptoms include missed periods for three consecutive cycles or more, changes in workout intensity or frequency, fatigue, sleep disturbances, altered eating habits, weight loss, and emotional stress.
Prevention Strategies: To mitigate the risk of exercise-induced amenorrhoea, experts recommend a multidisciplinary approach focusing on medical evaluation, dietary adjustments, and psychological support. Key prevention tips include:
Balanced Exercise Routine: Incorporate varied intensity workouts, including strength training, cardio, and flexibility exercises, while allowing adequate rest periods.
Nutritional Adequacy: Ensure a balanced diet providing sufficient calories to match energy expenditure, with a focus on carbohydrates, proteins, and fats essential for fueling workouts and supporting hormonal balance.
Hydration and Recovery: Prioritize hydration before, during, and after workouts, and incorporate rest days into your exercise schedule to facilitate recovery and prevent overtraining.
Stress Management: Implement stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, and mindfulness to alleviate physical and emotional strain associated with intense exercise.
Regular Monitoring: Monitor menstrual cycle changes and overall health status, seeking professional medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
