Discussing the athlete’s perspective on how the menstrual cycle intersects with daily training reveals a shared core belief: workouts are influenced by biology, and science backs this up widely. Since the 1950s, roughly 1,335 research papers have examined this topic, underscoring a long history of inquiry. Most studies have focused on hormonal changes in men and women, yet the field is gradually broadening to include a wider view of how cycles affect performance and health.
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From this Thursday, women will be able to request leave for menstrual pain.
Concepción Ruiz Gómez, a specialist in physical education and sports medicine and a member of the Spanish Society of Sports Medicine, notes that there is still much to learn. In recent years, more research has explored how the menstrual cycle relates to sports performance. The aim is to improve decision making and develop strategies that maximize performance while protecting health.
The menstrual cycle undeniably affects a woman’s physical readiness. Dr. Miriam Al-Adib, a gynecologist and obstetrician with a medical degree, explains the experience in detail. Premenstrual fatigue, irritability, and mood swings can intensify during the days of menstruation, when abdominal discomfort or lower back pain may also occur. There are additional insights to consider. In some cases, hypothalamic amenorrhea can happen, where the brain signals the ovaries to pause the cycle. This adaptation helps the body conserve energy when necessary.
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The discussion continues with clear examples of how menstrual biology intersects with training.
The professional behind these observations notes both positive and negative effects linked to different phases of the cycle. Challenges during the premenstrual, menstrual, and ovulatory stages can include weight fluctuations, fluid shifts, and changes in basal blood sugar. Resting respiratory capacity may dip, body temperature can alter, and sleep patterns may shift. Yet, research also points to favorable moments: after menstruation or ovulation, athletes may better absorb training loads, experience more stable moods conducive to exertion, and show improvements in aerobic capacity and hormonal responses that support performance.
medicines
When seeking relief for menstrual discomfort or headaches, the first step is a visit to a gynecologist for a personalized plan. Options may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, among other alternatives, and it is important to consider these under professional guidance. Anti-doping considerations remain an important part of the discussion.
Researchers in sports medicine emphasize looking at rest, sleep, and nutrition as factors that can reduce injury risk. Menstrual phases can influence the likelihood of muscle or ligament injuries, so understanding cycle timing helps with planning training and recovery.
Another key point is self-awareness. Hormonal changes can bring physical and emotional shifts. Each athlete is encouraged to learn her own body, tracking symptoms to tailor training and nutrition. Recognizing pattern changes in the cycle enables athletes to optimize performance and contribute to ongoing research efforts.