FACTORS AFFECTING THE HORMONAL STATE OF FEMALE ATHLETES

Abstract. Objective: This study aimed to assess the hormonal status of female athletes across different sports disciplines and training durations, evaluating the impact of various physical loads on reproductive and stress hormone levels. Methods: An observational cohort study was conducted, including 240 female athletes (aged 15–40 years) from aesthetic, endurance, strength, and team sports. Participants were grouped based on sports discipline and training experience (<5 years, 5–10 years, >10 years). Blood samples were collected in the early follicular phase (days 3–5), and hormone levels (FSH, LH, estradiol, testosterone, cortisol) were analyzed. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results: Statistically significant differences (p<0.05) were observed in hormone levels among the groups. Aesthetic sports athletes had the lowest FSH, LH, estradiol, and testosterone levels, along with the highest cortisol levels, suggesting increased physiological stress. Strength athletes exhibited the highest testosterone and estradiol levels, indicating an adaptive response to high-intensity training. Endurance and team sports athletes showed intermediate hormone levels. Conclusion: The study confirmed that different sports disciplines significantly affect the hormonal status of female athletes. Aesthetic sports were associated with higher physiological stress and lower reproductive hormone levels, while strength sports promoted higher testosterone and estradiol concentrations. Keywords: Female athletes, Hormonal balance, Sports physiology, Endocrine adaptation.