Hypothalamic Amenorrhea and Relative Energy Deficiency

Presented by Katrina Allison, ND

Abstract:

Hypothalamic amenorrhea is an often overlooked menstrual disturbance that clinicians need the tools to identify, assess, and treat with evidence-based tools. There are multiple unique populations at risk, including athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals with eating disorders. Participants will gain insights into the underlying causes of HA, including excessive exercise, inadequate nutrition, and chronic stress. Emphasis will be placed on the impact of energy deficiency on the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis and the subsequent disruption of menstrual cycles.

Clinicians will learn about the pathophysiology and clinical signs and symptoms of HA and RED, enabling them to identify at-risk patients. Diagnostic approaches, including medical history evaluation, hormonal assessment, and bone mineral density testing, will be discussed to aid in accurate diagnosis and differentiation from other conditions. Evidence-based treatment strategies to effectively manage HA will be discussed. Attendees will be introduced to the principles of energy balance, including nutrition considerations and exercise modification.  Practical guidance on creating individualized treatment plans will be provided, emphasizing a multidisciplinary approach and appropriate referrals. The session will conclude with a discussion of pharmacological options for treating HA with a focus on hormone therapy.

Speaker Biography:

Dr. Katrina Allison is a naturopathic physician in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Katrina’s practice is focused on caring for female athletes and active women. As an athlete herself, Katrina competed at a collegiate and then international level in distance running while studying Biomedical Sciences at the University of Guelph. During her career as an athlete, Katrina became extremely familiar with the negative health outcomes that occur all too frequently in female sport. This inspired her clinical focus, and her mission, to help active women and girls thrive in activity and in life.