When to use this
When an athlete starts, changes, or asks about hormonal contraception and someone assumes the fueling picture is now handled.
- A regular-looking cycle on the app is being used as proof that fueling is fine.
- Appetite, GI symptoms, or energy shifted after a method change.
- Fatigue or bone pain is being dismissed because bleeding looks normal on paper.
Advanced lab
A conversation framework for coaches and parents
This topic belongs with the athlete's physician. What can be shared usefully is how to have the conversation without overstepping.
All contraception decisions and hormonal questions belong with the athlete's physician. Pair that with a sports dietitian whenever fueling, iron, or RED-S questions are part of the same picture.
Evidence sources
These references support the handout’s general education. Individual medical, supplement, laboratory, or injury questions should be handled by the appropriate qualified clinician.
- ISSN Position Stand (2023) Nutritional considerations for female athletes. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 20(1):2204066.
- Mountjoy M, Sundgot-Borgen JK, Burke LM, et al. (2023) IOC 2023 consensus statement on REDs. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 57:1073-1098.
Where to go next
