Menstrual cycle monitoring in applied sport settings: A scoping review

Objectives The aim of this review was to summarise the existing literature concerning the implementation of menstrual cycle tracking in applied sport settings. Methods For this scoping review, database searches were conducted in ProQuest, PubMed, Scopus, SportDISCUS, and Web of Science. Screening was performed by two independent reviewers to identify academic publications that related to the concept of menstrual cycle tracking in applied sport settings. Results Twenty-six articles published between 2001 and 2024 fulfilled the inclusion criteria. These were most commonly original research articles (n = 19) and published in the last two years (n = 20). One research protocol paper and six opinion articles published in academic journals were also included. Twelve of the 26 publications recommend implementing tracking in sport settings; many publications also encourage providing education (n = 13) and facilitating more open communication (n = 10) on menstrual-related topics. Where tracking was conducted, this was done using calendar-based methods alone (n = 5) or in conjunction with urinary (n = 3), capillary blood (n = 2) and venous blood (n = 1) hormone measures, and ovulation test kits (n = 1). Conclusions Menstrual cycle tracking may be a useful tool for promoting self-awareness, identifying menstrual dysfunction, and managing menstrual symptoms. However, in practice there are potential risks, such as loss of privacy or misuse of data. There is also a need for ecologically valid tracking tools that can identify subtle menstrual disturbances, to make tracking more beneficial and efficient.