Stigma around the menstrual cycle
A stigma still exists around the menstrual cycle with feelings of embarrassment and the awkwardness of conversations frequently identified by participants. For more on this, see our infographic, The Menstrual Cycle: Female Athletes’ Experiences and Perceptions.
Previously, discomfort in society and the media have reinforced the perception of the menstrual cycle being a topic of secrecy and embarrassment. Yet the menstrual cycle is a normal, biological process that can impact health, participation and performance. Therefore, it should be discussed and considered within sport.