The relationship of menstrual irregularity with AMH, ghrelin and leptin levels in athletes

Abstract

Objective: To explore menstrual irregularity rates in female professional basketball and volleyball players and investigate the relationship with Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), ghrelin, leptin levels and biochemical parameters. Material and Methods: Forty-one professional female athletes and forty-one non-athlete controls aged 18-35 years participated in the study. Questioning of menstrual function has been performed and whole blood counts, AMH, leptin, ghrelin and other endocrine and metabolic parameters were evaluated. Results: 41% of female athletes and in 24% of non-athlete controls revealed menstrual irregularities. AMH, ghrelin, leptin levels were similar in athletes and control group (p>0.05). While athletes with menstrual irregularities tend to have lower ghrelin and leptin levels and higher AMH than athletes without irregularities, the difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05). No significant difference was found between the groups in terms of endocrine and other metabolic parameters (p>0.05). There was a significant negative correlation between ghrelin and menstrual irregularity (r=-0.240, p=0.031) and a statistically significant positive correlation between AMH and testosterone levels (r=-0.247, p=0.025). There was no significant relationship between other parameters (p>0.05). Conclusions: Although it was not significant, athletes were found to have more menstrual irregularities. The leading factors and preventive measures should be investigated in detail.