GLOSSARY

Menstrual Irregularity Variation or disturbance in menstrual timing that may warrant assessment depending on its pattern and context.

Menstrual dysfunction is a clinical signal with several possible causes, including pregnancy, endocrine disorders, medication and inadequate energy availability. Functional hypothalamic amenorrhea is diagnosed after appropriate evaluation, not from training volume alone. Missing periods should not be normalized as an inevitable sign of serious training. Withdrawal bleeding on hormonal contraception does not establish recovery of spontaneous menstrual function. A qualified team should assess the history, energy supply, bone health and other causes while coordinating nutrition, medical care and training decisions.

Nutrition for a female athlete starts with adequate energy and nutrients for the actual sport, health and life stage. Menstrual history, iron losses, contraception, pregnancy and menopause can add important context. Average sex differences do not define every person's needs, and evidence from one hormonal state cannot automatically be applied to another. Ask about symptoms and preferences without assuming that menstruation requires restriction. Preserve confidentiality and use relevant health information to support care rather than to judge selection, commitment or athletic potential.

Relative energy deficiency in sport describes impaired health or function associated with problematic low energy availability and can affect female and male athletes. The duration, severity and individual context matter. No isolated body weight, symptom, hormone value or calculated energy-availability threshold can diagnose every case. Clinical assessment integrates history, signs, measurements and alternative explanations. The IOC assessment framework supports trained clinicians; it is not a self-scoring clearance tool. Management addresses energy supply and training while considering psychological support and the athlete's overall safety.