Challenging menstrual silence in sport: adolescent girls' perspectives on menstrual health, communication and change

Background Menstrual health has historically been a taboo subject and under-researched in sport. Although research on this topic is increasing, studies focusing on non-elite adolescent girls from a child rights perspective remain limited. Floorball, a male-dominated sport, is one of the most popular indoor team sports among adolescents in Sweden. This study explored the menstrual health experiences of non-elite adolescent girls playing floorball. Methods Sixteen girls aged 12–18 years were interviewed. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results Adolescents described physical discomfort, mood changes, fatigue and fear of menstrual leakage during menstruation, which sometimes reduced their performance in training and competition. Despite believing that menstruation should not be a taboo topic, menstrual discomfort was often managed in silence, and discussions about menstruation were limited due to embarrassment or perceived stigma, both among teammates and with coaches. Adolescents expressed openness to change and suggested several solutions for a more menstrual health-friendly environment: improved menstrual cycle knowledge among coaches, normalisation of menstrual conversations within the team and access to menstrual products at sports facilities. Coaches were identified as key actors for change, as adolescents expressed that knowledgeable and supportive coaches could help normalise menstruation and reduce stigma. Conclusions Adolescents' perspectives on menstrual-related challenges and solutions are essential for developing menstrual health-friendly sports environments. Integrating menstrual health into coach education, supported by organisational policies and practical resources, may strengthen coaches' competence and confidence to communicate about menstruation and provide appropriate support to adolescent athletes.