925 MEP174 – Exploring menstrual symptoms and perceived impact on performance among female athletes: a pilot study from the commonwealth games 2022, Birmingham

AbstractBackground Menstrual disturbances and symptoms are more prevalent in female athletic population and likely impact training, performance, and Activities of Daily Living (ADL). The aim of this pilot study was to explore symptoms, perceived impact and coping responses of menstrual cycle in female athletes participating in Birmingham commonwealth games 2022. Method AECC University College Ethical Committee approved the study. Themes from qualitative research, Dance-specific Relative Energy availability in Sports and Menstrual distress questionnaire informed online survey creation. Twelve participants who had reached menarche were included in the study from 15 respondents (15% response-rate). Results All athletes reported variably in intensity, number of symptoms including cramps (100%), heavy periods with blood clots(33.3%), diagnosed gynaecological condition(0.8%), fatigue (33.3%; Intensity= 6.25/10±2.06/10), physical discomfort(50%; Intensity= 5/10±2.6/10), bowel symptoms(58.3%; Intensity 5.7/10±2.5/10 ), Lower back pain(41.6% 5.4/10±1.8/10).The most prevalent emotional symptom reported was mood swings, affecting 66.67% of the participants. Although most athletes experienced multiple symptoms, their perceived impact on ADLs, performance, training, and relationships with others varied. Some athletes reported a negative impact (30–40%), whereas 50% reported no impact, and 20% even reported a positive impact.The most common coping strategies were ignoring pain (83.3%), maintaining hydration (66.67%), additional sleeping (66.7%) and painkillers (66.7%). Hot-cold pack use (50%), stretching (41.6%), taking a day off (20%), and modifying training (16.6%) were less common. Conclusion This pilot study highlights number of female athletes experiencing menstrual symptoms, its perceived impact on performance and coping strategies to manage symptoms and maintain performance. This study establishes need and foundation for further research in this area with higher sample size.Keywords Female athlete, Menstrual Cycle, Performance SportWith Thanks To: Dr Nicky Keay