Approaching Euro 2025, Research Highlights Menstrual Symptoms' Influence on Female Footballers' Performance
Elite women's soccer stars are gearing up for Euro 2025, offering spectators a chance to witness high-level sport and highlight the unique experiences of female athletes. One lesser-discussed aspect is the impact of menstruation on players' performance, a topic that was recently addressed in a study conducted by FUTPRO, an association for female soccer players in Spain.
Working with Cyclo, a menstrual health company, the study surveyed over 40% of Spanish women playing professionally. The findings indicated that 75% of these athletes have experienced period pains affecting their on-field performance. Moreover, 77% of the clubs surveyed had never assisted players in adapting training sessions during their monthly cycles. Furthermore, 92% of interviewees reported experiencing anxiety about potential clothing stains and the associated stress.
To ensure the well-being of players takes precedence over the sporting spectacle, it is crucial that soccer organizations become better educated about menstrual health and develop resources to support athletes. As an example, the U.S. Women's National Team utilized sports science recommendations en route to winning the World Cup in 2019. England's women's team secured a switch to dark blue shorts in 2023, addressing concerns about wearing white during their periods.
Menstruation continues to be a taboo topic in soccer circles, with many female professionals speaking out, including Fridolina Rolfö of Barcelona and Mary Fowler of Manchester City. Arsenal partnered with detergent brand Persil to normalize periods and encourage players to continue playing throughout their cycles. Manchester City announced a partnership with period underwear label Snuggs in March.
The upcoming Euro 2025 competition, set to take place in Switzerland from July 2-27, will distribute €41 million ($47 million) in prize money. Fox Sports has secured 19 games for their schedule, potentially reaching a significant audience in the U.S. However, focusing on players' well-being is just as important as promoting sporting excellence.
Keeping female athletes comfortable and healthy is crucial for teams at every level, not just the highest echelons. Addressing menstrual health needs, accompanying injury prevention initiatives, and refining training programs based on menstrual cycle phases can help meet this goal. As events like the Euro 2025 draw closer, it is essential to prioritize the overall well-being of players in addition to showcasing the thrilling competition ahead.
- The upcoming Euro 2025, comprising 19 games scheduled by Fox Sports, could potentially inspire a wider audience in the United States. However, it's important to remember that prioritizing the well-being of players, including addressing their menstrual health needs, is equally crucial.
- The recent FUTPRO study revealed that 75% of Spanish women soccer players have experienced period pains impacting their on-field performance, with 77% of clubs not providing any support in adapting training sessions during menstrual cycles.
- Advocating for better menstrual health education and resources in soccer organizations can significantly improve player well-being, as demonstrated by the U.S. Women's National Team's utilization of sports science recommendations during their World Cup win in 2019.
- High-profile figures like Fridolina Rolfö of Barcelona and Mary Fowler of Manchester City have spoken out about the need for progress in menstrual health awareness within the soccer community, with clubs like Arsenal and Manchester City taking steps to normalize periods and support female athletes.
