MENSTRUAL CYCLE DISORDERS IN FEMALE ATHLETES: PREVALENCE, CAUSES, AND CLINICAL MANAGEMENT

Alicja Serafin; Aleksandra Kołodziej; Monika Skalska; Natalia Wojtachnio; Joanna  Strzyż; Karolina Rymska; Zuzanna Starczyk

doi:10.31435/ijitss.2(50).2026.5361

Authors

Alicja Serafin Lower Silesia Oncology, Pulmonology and Haematology Center, ul. Plac Hirszfelda 12, 53-413 Wrocław, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0000-1060-7437
Aleksandra Kołodziej Lower Silesia Oncology, Pulmonology and Haematology Center, ul. Grabiszyńska 105, 53-439 Wrocław, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0004-8710-8053
Monika Skalska Graduate of Medical University of Wrocław, Louis Pasteur Coast 1, 50-367 Wrocław, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0008-0151-2215
Natalia Wojtachnio Medical University of Wroclaw, Borowska 213, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0007-1187-9929
Joanna Strzyż Jan Mikulicz-Radecki University Clinical Hospital in Wrocław, 213 Borowska Street, 50-556 Wrocław, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0009-3604-8288
Karolina Rymska Uniwersytecki Szpital Kliniczny im. Jana Mikulicza-Radeckiego we Wrocławiu, ul. Borowska 213, 50-556 Wrocław, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0009-8826-8899
Zuzanna Starczyk Lower Silesia Oncology, Pulmonology and Haematology Center, ul. Plac Hirszfelda 12, 53-413 Wrocław, Poland https://orcid.org/0009-0001-0526-4836

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31435/ijitss.2(50).2026.5361

Keywords:

Amenorrhea, Oligomenorrhea, Luteal Phase Defect, Female Athlete Triad, Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport, Sports Medicine, Female Athletes

Abstract

Introduction: Menstrual cycle disorders are a common and clinically significant health problem among female athletes. They occur more frequently in physically active women than in the general population and are often associated with low energy availability, excessive training load, and psychosocial stress. These disturbances may impair reproductive health, bone metabolism, and overall athletic performance.

Objective: To review the current scientific literature on the prevalence, causes, clinical classification, and management of menstrual cycle disorders in female athletes.

Methods: A narrative review of recent scientific literature was conducted using peer-reviewed studies, review articles, and clinical recommendations concerning menstrual dysfunction in physically active women. The review focused on the epidemiology, etiology, diagnostic approach, and current management strategies for menstrual cycle disorders in female athletes.

Conclusions: Menstrual cycle disorders in female athletes represent an important clinical and public health issue and should not be regarded as a normal consequence of sports participation. Early identification, restoration of energy balance, multidisciplinary support, and individualized management are crucial to improve both long-term health outcomes and athletic performance. Greater awareness among athletes, coaches, and healthcare professionals is necessary to ensure effective prevention and timely intervention.

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