Women athletes losing their periods was long considered normal. Not anymore.
9 hours ago
- #menstrual-health
- #athlete-wellness
- #women-in-sports
- Veronica Ewers ignored her missed periods, believing it indicated peak fitness, leading to health issues like osteoporosis.
- 36% of female athletes surveyed in the UK thought missed periods were normal or beneficial for performance.
- Medical professionals often dismiss period abnormalities in athletes, reinforcing harmful misconceptions.
- Long-term absence of periods can indicate RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport), affecting bone health, fertility, and recovery.
- Athletes in endurance, aesthetic, and weight-bearing sports are particularly vulnerable to period loss due to performance pressures.
- Demi Vollering and other athletes advocate for body positivity and health over unrealistic weight expectations in sports.
- Menstrual cycle tracking is being integrated into training by teams like the USWNT and Chelsea FC to optimize performance.
- Historical taboos and lack of research on menstrual health have perpetuated ignorance and shame around periods in sports.
- Understanding menstrual cycles can help athletes harness their 'superpower' phases for better performance and recovery.
- Calls for mandatory RED-S screening and better education aim to prevent long-term health risks for athletes.