Masters Theses/Capstone Projects

ORCID

0009-0005-5116-6638

Date of Award

Spring 5-4-2025

Document Type

Thesis

First Committee Member

Ally Smith

Advisor

Ally Smith

Second Committee Member

Joan Rocks

Keywords

Female Athlete Triad, Division III, Ohio Athletic Conference, Low Energy Availability, Eating Disorder, Menstrual Dysfunction, Low Bone Mineral Density

Subject Categories

Medical Education | Medicine and Health Sciences | Mental and Social Health | Public Health | Rehabilitation and Therapy | Sports Sciences

Abstract

The Female Athlete Triad (TRIAD) is a multifaceted condition that affects female athletes and encompasses three primary interrelated components: low energy availability with or without an eating disorder, menstrual dysfunction, and low bone mineral density. The condition is associated with significant health consequences other than impaired athletic performance, such as compromised bone health and disruptions to the endocrine and reproductive systems. While the TRIAD has been extensively studied at higher collegiate levels, its prevalence and impact on Division 3 athletes remain underexplored. This study aims to assess the prevalence of the Female Athlete Triad in female athletes from the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC). Data was collected through an online survey distributed to athletes in OAC institutions via social media and email. The survey incorporated established instruments such as the LEAF-Q and the EDE-Q, supplemented by additional questions regarding menstrual status and bone health. Data was collected and moved from the Qualtrics online survey platform to the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) for data analysis. Statistics for this study included averages (means) and standard deviation (SD) for all demographical data (age, gender, ethnicity, education level, sport, menstrual history and status, height (in.), current weight (lbs.), lowest past weight at current height (lbs.), highest past weight at current height (lbs.), and ideal weight at (weight that the athlete would like to be at) (lbs.). Other statistics included frequencies and proportions for EA risk, ED risk, and pathogenic behaviors. Chi-squared was calculated and assessed to determine the differences in LEA with or without an ED.  Overall, 57% (n=86) of participants were at risk for the TRIAD. Global scores, eating, shape, and weight concerns were all above community norms. 13.9% (n=21) of participants suffer from PA, and 11.9% (n=18) of participants suffer from SA (self-reported). 6.6% (n=10) presented with a fracture. This study highlights the prevalence of the TRIAD risk factors among Division 3 female athletes. While prior research has focused on high schools and higher divisions, this study reveals that 57% of Division 3 female athletes are at risk. The lack of significant differences across universities, sports, or academic status suggests the TRIAD risk is widespread. These findings underscore the importance of collaboration among athletes, coaches, athletic trainers, and healthcare professionals to implement effective prevention strategies.

Licensing Permission

Copyright, all rights reserved. Fair Use

Acknowledgement 1

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Acknowledgement 2

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