Christa is a marathon runner who has amenorrhea.What is the most probable cause of her condition?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Amenorrhea, the absence of menstrual periods, is a common phenomenon experienced by female athletes, particularly long-distance runners. The most likely cause of amenorrhea in marathon runners is an extremely low body fat percentage, which can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle. Insufficient energy reserves can signal to the brain that the body is not in a position to sustain a pregnancy, leading to the cessation of ovulation and menstruation. In such cases, the body prioritizes the maintenance of vital organ systems over reproductive function. Thus, it is common for female athletes with very low body fat percentages to experience hormone imbalances that can lead to menstrual irregularities or amenorrhea.

Christa Is a Marathon Runner Who Has Amenorrhea