Effects of Resistance Training on Women With Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea

Impact of Strength Training on Mental Health and Physical Fitness in Women With Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea

Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea (FHA) is a condition where women lose their menstrual periods, typically due to a combination of stress and insufficient calorie intake to fuel their daily physical activity (low energy availability). Standard medical advice often requires these women to completely stop exercising to recover their energy balance and hormones. However, this "complete rest" approach can cause severe anxiety for active individuals and removes the necessary mechanical loading that keeps bones strong.

This study evaluates the safety and effectiveness of an 8-week supervised resistance training (weightlifting) program as a realistic alternative treatment for active women with FHA. The researchers compare a group of women experiencing FHA to a control group of women with regular menstrual cycles. Over the 8 weeks, participants complete three moderate-intensity, full-body weightlifting sessions per week.

The primary goal is to determine if women with FHA can successfully recover their menstrual cycles while continuing to lift weights. Additionally, the study monitors changes in muscle strength, jumping performance, body composition, resting heart rate, and psychological well-being. Ultimately, this study aims to provide healthcare providers and coaches with evidence-based strategies that allow female athletes to safely maintain their athletic identity and physical health during recovery.

Inclusion Criteria:

• General Profile: Active women aged 18 to 35 years.
• FHA Group: Clinical diagnosis of Functional Hypothalamic Amenorrhea, defined as the absence of menstruation for at least three consecutive months not attributable to other endocrine disorders.
• Control Group (EU): Eumenorrheic women with regular ovulatory cycles lasting between 24 and 35 days during the previous six months.
• Commitment: Agreement to participate in a supervised 8-week resistance training program and provision of medical documentation confirming menstrual status.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Hormonal Status: Current use of any hormonal contraceptives.
• Medical Conditions: Diagnosed endocrine disorders such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), hyperandrogenism, or thyroid dysfunction.

Pregnancy: Current pregnancy.

• Physical Activity History: Engagement in any structured resistance training program during the three months prior to the start of the intervention.
• General Health: Any medical condition that could interfere with the study protocol or the ability to perform physical exercise.