The Menstrual Cycle: Female Athletes' Experiences and Perceptions

Female athletes experience a wide range of physical, affective and psychological symptoms during their menstrual cycle (period) that may impact on their training and competitions. When considering this topic, athletes highlighted experiences of these that resulted in them having to adapt practice sessions or even miss training completely.

The feelings and symptoms created increased anxiety and distraction whilst at competition, with many stating that it affected their performance.

One of the biggest factors highlighted by the athletes was their reservations about having conversations about their menstrual cycle and symptoms. The athletes stated that the frequency of conversations and both their comfort, and that of their coach, in discussing their menstrual cycle, was a significant factor. Crucially, they reported feeling more comfortable talking to other females.

Implications for coaches

The menstrual cycle should be considered equally and discussed when necessary alongside other performance factors in sport, with the absence of feelings of embarrassment or awkwardness during conversations. 

Increasing openness and comfort of conversations should be a priority for health, well-being and performance. This can be helped by athletes’ increased self-awareness, including the monitoring and recording of their menstrual cycle and symptoms, along with lifestyle patterns.

Additionally, improving coaches’ confidence to discuss and increase their knowledge of the menstrual cycle will have a positive effect on managing the symptoms and challenges in training and competition.

Related Resources