The menstrual cycle plays a vital role in the health of females. Special attention must bepaid to female training, exercise and nutrition due to differences in female physiology.However there is a lack of knowledge in females, athletes or coaches surrounding themenstrual cycle and the affects that it has on female athletes.
Why is it so important?
A regular menstrual cycle is a barometer of hormone health. There are many changes inhormones during the cycle which can be crucial to our health and athletic performance.
What does a regular cycle look like?
Everyone’s cycle is different and it varies from person to person.
But on average a cycle is:
- 26-35 days long (divided into 3 phases)
- A period lasting 4-7 days
- Characterised by the rise and fall of hormones in the body – Oestrogenand Progesterone
Things to know!
- Not starting periods by age 16, or not having periods for 3 months or more should be assessed by GP
- A regular menstrual cycle is a barometer of hormone health
- Individuals will have different energy levels, pain thresholds and endurance during the phases of themenstrual cycle and training should be tailored accordingly.
- The pill can mask problems with hormone health and choosing to use it for contraception should be aninformed source
