Does a woman's menstrual cycle affect her athletic performance? Here's what the science says

During the Women’s FIFA World Cup, it has been wonderful to see the spotlight turn to female athletes. There’s always been more research on male athletes compared to female athletes, but the gap is narrowing. One thing we still don’t know enough about is the effect of the menstrual cycle on athletic performance.

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What does the menstrual cycle do to a woman’s body?

• The menstrual cycle can also give rise to symptoms including pain, cramps, weakness, and poor sleep and focus, challenging performance during training and competition.
• Consequently there is disagreement regarding whether the menstrual cycle universally affects athletic performance, with some research indicating no influence of the menstrual cycle on certain performance measures.
• Clearly the extent and severity to which the menstrual cycle impacts athletic performance is highly variable and complex, with more research needed.
• So for now it’s sensible to consider the effects of the menstrual cycle on an individual basis.

How to support athletic performance at all cycle stages

• Iron status can also be compromised by blood loss during menstruation, depending on the heaviness and duration of bleeding.
• Addressing deficiencies through diet, supplementation, or iron transfusions, will ensure athletic performance during training and competition is not compromised.
• Coaches should also ensure athletes maintain adequate nutrition for both competition and to support their menstrual cycle.
• Using this approach, athletes can mitigate the influence of the menstrual cycle on their performance, giving them the best opportunity to achieve their athletic potential and success during competition.