Survey study, 2024
Does the menstrual cycle affect well-being and performance in professional female soccer players?
The menstrual cycle phase did not affect how far players ran, how hard they worked, or their overall well-being after matches. Sleep quality was worse after away matches, and losing affected stress and mood for 2 days, regardless of cycle phase.
What they did
Researchers studied 22 professional female soccer players (average age 25 years) over 26 matches in the 2021-2022 season. Players reported their menstrual cycle phase and their well-being including soreness, sleep, stress, mood, and fatigue on match day and for 3 days after. Researchers also measured the distance players ran and their effort level using GPS technology.
What they found
Menstrual cycle phase had no effect on distance covered, effort level, soreness, stress, or mood. Sleep quality was worse on the day after away matches and 2 days after away matches (to a lesser degree). Stress and mood were more than 28% worse after playing higher-ranked teams. Losing matches made stress and mood significantly worse for 2 days. Playing position and menstrual cycle phase did not affect well-being.
What it means for you
For professional athletes, the menstrual cycle phase does not seem to affect sports performance or how players feel after playing. Match location (home versus away) and result matter much more. The findings are limited by the small number of players and that it was only one team.
22
Professional soccer players studied
26
Matches across the 2021-2022 season
28%
Worse stress and mood after playing top-ranked teams
About the study
- Original title
- Menstrual Cycle and Situational Match Variables: Effects on Well-Being in Professional Female Soccer Players
- Authors
- Abbott W, Exall Z, Walsh L et al.
- Journal
- Research quarterly for exercise and sport
- Year
- 2024
- Study design
- Survey study
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1080/02701367.2023.2298443
Topics
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