In Episode 101 of Trail Society, OB/GYN, ultrarunner, and mom of two Dr. Lauren Puretz joins Corrine, Keely, and Hillary for a candid and insightful conversation about puberty, birth control, and fertility in female athletes. Drawing from both her medical practice and personal experience as an elite endurance athlete, Dr. Puretz breaks down complex topics like energy availability, menstrual health, and hormonal birth control, offering practical advice for athletes navigating these issues. The discussion highlights how puberty and menstruation are affected by training load, the importance of not masking menstrual irregularities with birth control, and how coaches and caregivers can support young athletes during this pivotal time.

The conversation also explores fertility concerns in current and retired athletes, including whether period loss during early athletic years may impact long-term reproductive health. Dr. Puretz discusses proactive steps athletes can take, such as hormone testing and fertility planning, and the growing trend of egg freezing among those delaying parenthood. Her honest and empowering perspective sheds light on the lifelong health journey female athletes face, from adolescence to adulthood, and sets the stage for a deeper dive into pregnancy and postpartum care in the next episode.

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