The female athlete triad

Ann Jt. 2022 Jan 15:7:6. doi: 10.21037/aoj-2020-03. eCollection 2022.

Abstract

The female athlete triad represents the 3 interrelated components: of energy availability (EA), menstrual function and bone health. Each component exists on a spectrum ranging from optimal health to dysfunction. Screening for the triad during the annual wellness exam, the preparticipation physical evaluation (PPE) or when the athlete presents with any single component can help identify athletes at risk. A multidisciplinary team is helpful in managing the treatment of the Triad which relies on improving EA. Screening, early recognition and aggressive treatment is important, especially in adolescent athletes to optimize bone health.

Keywords: Bone density; amenorrhea; energy intake (EI); exercise; female athlete triad syndrome/diagnosis; female athlete triad syndrome/therapy.

Publication types

  • Review