The relationship between irregular menstrual cycle and bone stress injuries in female athletes

Background and objectives: Emerging evidence suggests that irregular menstrual cycles may be linked to an increased prevalence of bone stress injuries among female athletes, but the relationship in this specific population requires further exploration. This study aims to investigate the correlation between irregular menstrual cycles and bone stress injuries in female athletes, distinguishing between those with and without such injuries. Non -pregnant female athletes aged 20 years and older were included in this analysis. Information on menstrual cycle regularity and bone stress injuries was collected through detailed health questionnaires. Additionally, dietary habits, specifically dietary fiber intake-which has been associated with general health outcomes-were assessed using two 24 -hour recalls from the NHANES database. Demographic and health characteristics between athletes with regular and irregular menstrual cycles were compared using SPSS software. Logistic regression analysis was employed to assess the impact of menstrual irregularities on the incidence of bone stress injuries. Results indicated that female athletes with irregular menstrual cycles exhibited a higher incidence of bone stress injuries compared to their counterparts with regular cycles. The study highlights the need for targeted health strategies to address menstrual irregularities in female athletes to reduce the risk of bone stress injuries and promote overall bone health.