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.