Female Gaelic Athletes Report High Rates of Menstrual Symptoms and Pelvic Floor Issues in DCU Study

Dr David Nolan and Poppy Jean Maguire and Dr Ian Bell surveyed 451 female athletes competing across Ireland, found that almost all naturally menstruating players (97.7%) reported negative symptoms related to their menstrual cycle, with abdominal cramping, tiredness, and bloating being most common. Notably, 85.7% of these athletes believed their menstrual cycle influenced their athletic performance.

More than half of respondents (51.7%) were using hormonal contraceptives, primarily oral contraceptive pills. Among these users, 62% reported negative side effects such as fatigue and mood changes, with nearly one-third perceiving an impact on their performance.

Perhaps most striking were the findings on pelvic floor dysfunction. Despite the young average age of participants (23.6 years), substantial numbers reported urinary urgency (47.8%), genital pain (44.3%), and urinary incontinence (36.8%) – conditions often assumed to primarily affect post-partum athletes.

The researchers emphasise that while current scientific evidence doesn't show menstrual cycles significantly affecting objective performance measures, the lived experiences of athletes matter. They recommend individualized approaches to symptom management and call for increased education among athletes, coaches, and support staff in Gaelic games, where volunteer coaching structures are common.

The study highlights that topics like pelvic floor dysfunction remain somewhat taboo in sport, potentially causing athletes to suffer in silence or even quit. Creating supportive environments where athletes feel comfortable discussing these health considerations could be crucial for retention and wellbeing in women's sport.