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Female Athlete Triad

NB: Don’t scroll past gentleman, this can also affect males, it is also referred to as “relative energy
deficiency.”

As it states a triad (three) common in the female and consists of:

  • Low bone mineral density (BMD)
  • Mensural abnormalities (missed or scanty flow)
  • In the presence or absence of eating disorders (bulimia, anorexia nervosa)

These when they occur show an underlying physiologic disturbance in normal body processes and by
then already at hormonal level. Only occurrence of one of the above warrants evaluation for the female
athlete triad.

Common Sports: soccer, netball, gymnastics, swimming etc.

Problem:
Abnormal weight management practices (making weight through abnormal eating habits) or low energy
intake compared to exercise expenditure.

The output is an energy deficiency or negative energy balance which impacts negatively on the
metabolic processes and the hormonal profile. The common organs that are initially affected are the
weight bearing bones (stress fractures and increased risk of sustaining a fracture from low BMD), female
reproductive system (amenorrhea or a scanty flow).

These when sustained progresses to affect various organs as there is no energy to adequately fuel the
body’s metabolic processes.

Athlete specific negative manifestations:
Anemia and reduced aerobic capacity (cardiovascular and Hematologic), frequent injuries and fractures,
muscle cramping and easy fatiqueability (energy production and musculoskeletal), underweight or low
BMI and chronic fatique syndrome (metabolic). All these will negatively affect your performance and
result in inability to reach your peak as an athlete.

Treatment:

  1. Full medical evaluation by a sports physician including blood tests to look at your hemoglobin and
    hormone profile (thyroid, estrogen, progesterone etc) and any indicated tests.
  2. Identifying cause (less intake or high expenditure) and correcting it
  3. Treatment is multi-disciplinary (nutrition, psychological support, iron supplements, oral
    contraceptives and bisphosphonates (NB: Bisphosphonates not to be consumed by women of child
    bearing age) and supplementing any deficiencies.

This is a correctable disorder and the key thing is prevention or early recognition and treatment with
good practices of managing the training load, nutrition and psychological assessment.
As the BFA medical we encourage all teams and in particular the women football teams to screen
athletes for this female athlete triad and refer for prompt treatment to aid improved athlete
performance and normal bodily function.

News

Setlhoko Appointed as FIFA  Women’s Football Development Expert

FIFA has announced the appointment of Ms. Tsholofelo Setlhoko as a FIFA Women’s Football Development Expert, joining a global network of qualified professionals dedicated to the growth and development of women’s football worldwide. This prestigious appointment recognizes Ms. Setlhoko’s exceptional contributions to the sport and her commitment to advancing women’s football across Botswana and beyond.

Launched in 2020, the FIFA Women’s Football Development Programmes have been instrumental in strengthening women’s football through targeted support for Member Associations. With the recent relaunch of the programme in December 2024, FIFA aims to expand its impact across all 211 Member Associations, offering tailored assistance that reflects the unique contexts and needs of each nation.

In her role as a FIFA Women’s Football Development Expert, Ms. Setlhoko will leverage her vast experience in football administration, strategic planning, and grassroots development to support Member Associations in implementing sustainable growth strategies. Her leadership within the Botswana Football Association (BFA), particularly in spearheading initiatives for women’s football, has set a benchmark for development and community engagement.

“I am deeply honored to be appointed as a FIFA Women’s Football Development Expert. This is not only a personal achievement but a victory for women’s football in Botswana. I look forward to sharing best practices and supporting the growth of women’s football in other Member Associations,” said Ms. Setlhoko.

The President of the Botswana Football Association, Mr. Tariq Babitseng, also expressed his pride in Ms. Setlhoko’s achievement, stating, “Tsholofelo’s appointment is a testament to her dedication and hard work. Her expertise and passion for women’s football are unmatched, and we are confident that she will make a substantial impact globally.”

Ms. Setlhoko’s appointment marks a significant step forward in the representation of African women in global football development. As she embarks on this journey, she remains committed to championing women’s football and inspiring the next generation of female athletes and administrators.

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