Mom Thinks She’s Having A Baby, Then Sees The Ultrasound

Published on November 11, 2019
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Running Can Be an Obstacle to Fertility 

Unfortunately, and while this is not necessarily the case for Lauren, running can cause fertility problems in women. Research from the American College of Sports Medicine has found that up to 44% of women who exercise regularly see their menstrual cycle change or stop entirely. This is something that female athletes may not address, as they can assume that they are in good health as a result of their lifestyle. However, this assumption can be dangerous.

A Woman Running

A Woman Running

What Causes These Issues?

When such fertility issues are seen, current research seems to suggest that it is due to a deficiency in caloric intake when compared to energy expenditure. Essentially, the women experiencing such changes to their cycle are not eating enough food to replenish the energy that they expend due to exercise, and their body responds by neglecting reproductive functioning in favour of maintaining proper energy levels. While this can cause infertility and bone problems, it is fortunately also reversible.

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A Female Football Player

A Female Football Player