Women’s Health Issues in Athletes: A Physiotherapist’s Perspective
As a physiotherapist, we often encounter unique challenges when working with female athletes. While women are incredibly resilient and capable of performing at the highest levels in sports, they face specific health concerns that require attention and care to optimise performance and prevent long-term complications.
Here are some key health issues that female athletes may face:
1. Menstrual Health & Hormonal Fluctuations
Hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle can significantly impact athletic performance. For instance, during the luteal phase (post-ovulation), women may experience joint instability, increased injury risk, and muscle fatigue. Understanding and tracking menstrual cycles can help athletes manage these fluctuations, allowing for adjustments in training intensity and recovery.
2. Female Athlete Triad
This term refers to a combination of three interrelated conditions:
- Low energy availability
- Menstrual dysfunction
- Low bone mineral density
Athletes with this triad are at higher risk of injuries and long-term health issues. It’s crucial to address these factors early with proper nutrition, balanced training, and hormonal health monitoring.
3. Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Women, especially those who have had children or engage in high-impact sports, may experience pelvic floor issues, such as urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse. In my experience, all female athletes should be able to compete at the highest level and to do this requires monitoring and knowledge around pelvic floor function and dysfunction. Regular pelvic floor exercises, and proper coaching on body mechanics can help prevent and address these concerns.
Women’s Health Conditions We Treat:
- Urinary Incontinence
- Urinary Urgency and Frequency
- Faecal Incontinence
- Constipation and Bowel Health
- Pelvic Pain
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse
- Preparation for Labour
- Pregnancy related Pains (e.g. lower back pain)
- Return to Sport post-partum
- Postpartum Rehabilitation
Conclusion
Women’s sports is multi-faceted and requires a holistic approach to treatment and prevention. As a physiotherapists, we emphasise personalised care, from tracking menstrual cycles to addressing specific injury risks. Women deserve to have their unique health needs understood and catered to, ensuring they can perform at their best.
Stay Active, Stay Strong, and Prioritise Your Health!
written by Physio Hannah Bennett
