Hormonal Health and High Performance | Sara Widdowson on Amenorrhea

In Sara Widdowson's third appearance on the podcast, Sara delves into the critical topic of amenorrhea, a condition characterised by the loss of your period, which often affects women who are high achievers or athletes. This blog post explores the insights Sara shared on maintaining hormonal health while striving for high performance and answers the common question: "Why have I lost my period?"

Understanding Amenorrhea

Amenorrhea is the medical term for the absence of menstruation. There are two types: primary amenorrhea, where menstruation never begins at puberty, and secondary amenorrhea, where menstruation begins but then stops. This blog focuses on secondary amenorrhea, which is more common among active women and athletes.

The loss of period can be a sign that your body is under significant stress. For many women, especially those who are highly active, the body prioritises other functions over reproductive health when it feels it's under threat. This can happen due to various factors such as excessive exercise, inadequate nutrition, and chronic stress.

Why Have I Lost My Period?

One of the most common questions Sara Widdowson encounters is, "Why have I lost my period?" The answer lies in the delicate balance of hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle. When this balance is disrupted, it can lead to amenorrhea. Here are some of the key reasons behind the loss of period:

1. Over-Exercising: Intense physical activity, especially without adequate recovery, can put stress on the body and disrupt the hormonal balance. This is common in athletes or women who engage in strenuous exercise routines without giving their bodies enough time to rest and recover.
2. Under-Eating: A lack of sufficient calories and nutrients can signal to the body that it's not safe to maintain reproductive functions. This caloric deficit can lead to a decrease in body fat, which is essential for hormone production, ultimately resulting in the loss of period.
3. Chronic Stress: High levels of stress over a prolonged period can elevate cortisol levels, which can interfere with the hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle. This stress can be physical, such as from over-exercising, or emotional, such as from work or personal life pressures.
4. Hormonal Imbalance: The menstrual cycle is regulated by a complex interplay of hormones, including estrogen and progesterone. When these hormones are out of balance, whether due to lifestyle factors or underlying health conditions, it can lead to amenorrhea.

How to Spot if Your Child Has Amenorrhea

As a parent, it’s crucial to be aware of the signs of amenorrhea, especially if your child is an active athlete or under significant stress. Here are some indicators that your child may be experiencing the loss of period due to amenorrhea:

• Keep an Eye on Period Products: One of the simplest ways to monitor your child’s menstrual health is by keeping track of how often you're buying period products. If you notice that you’re purchasing them less frequently, it could be a sign that your child is missing periods.
• Constant Injuries: Repeated injuries, particularly stress fractures or other overuse injuries, can be a red flag. These can be linked to a decrease in bone density, which is often a consequence of hormonal imbalances associated with amenorrhea.
• Other Physical Symptoms: Watch for other signs such as fatigue, changes in hair and skin health, or a noticeable decrease in energy levels. These symptoms, combined with the loss of period, can indicate that your child’s body is struggling to maintain its usual functions.

If you suspect that your child may have amenorrhea, it’s important to seek professional guidance. A healthcare provider can help diagnose the condition and develop a plan to address the underlying causes, whether they involve adjusting exercise routines, improving nutrition, or managing stress.

The Impact of Amenorrhea on Health

The loss of period is more than just a reproductive issue; it’s a sign that something is off with your overall health. Amenorrhea can lead to a decrease in bone density, increasing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. It can also affect your energy levels, mood, and overall wellbeing. Sara emphasises the importance of addressing amenorrhea not just to restore menstruation but to ensure long-term health.

Steps to Restore Hormonal Health

If you’ve experienced the loss of period, it’s crucial to take steps to restore your hormonal health. Here are some strategies Sara recommends:

• Reduce Exercise Intensity: If over-exercising is the cause, try scaling back your workouts and incorporating more rest days to allow your body to recover.
• Increase Nutritional Intake: Ensure you’re eating enough calories and nutrients to support your body’s needs. This may involve increasing your intake of healthy fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.
• Manage Stress: Incorporate stress-reducing practices into your daily routine, such as meditation, yoga, or simply spending time in nature.
• Seek Professional Guidance: Working with a healthcare provider, such as a dietitian or endocrinologist, can help you create a tailored plan to restore your hormonal balance and overall health.

Amenorrhea (or loss of period) is a condition that should not be ignored. The loss of period is your body’s way of telling you that something is out of balance. By understanding the causes of amenorrhea and taking proactive steps to restore your hormonal health, you can maintain both high performance and overall wellbeing.

For more in-depth insights and practical advice, listen to our full episode with Sara Widdowson on The O-Studio Podcast. Whether you’re an athlete, a parent, or someone interested in women’s health, this episode offers valuable knowledge on how to support your body through all of life’s demands. Listen here.

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