Case-control study, 2020
How does competitive sports affect PMS, PMDD, and menstrual disorders in young female athletes?
Female athletes had significantly more PMS (49.33%) than non-athletes (32%), with the risk increasing by 1.71 times per year of age. PMDD rates were similar between groups, but athletes had heavier periods and longer breaks between menstruation.
What they did
75 professional female athletes and 50 non-athletic control girls and women, ages 16-22 in Silesia, were compared using daily symptom diaries and questionnaires based on American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and DSM-V diagnostic criteria.
What they found
PMS was diagnosed in 49.33% of athletes versus 32.0% of non-athletes (p=0.045). PMDD was diagnosed in approximately 9.33% of athletes and 6% of non-athletes (not significantly different). Heavy menstrual bleeding (p=0.01) and longer breaks between periods (p=0.01) were more common in athletes. Older athletes and those with earlier first periods were more likely to have PMS.
What it means for you
Competitive sports may increase PMS risk in young women, particularly as they age. The study is limited to one region (Silesia) and relies on self-reported symptoms.
49.33% vs 32%
PMS: athletes vs non-athletes
9.33%
PMDD in athletes
1.71x
PMS risk per year of age
About the study
- Original title
- The impact of competitive sports on menstrual cycle and menstrual disorders, including premenstrual syndrome, premenstrual dysphoric disorder and hormonal imbalances
- Authors
- Czajkowska M, Drosdzol-Cop A, Naworska B et al.
- Journal
- Ginekologia polska
- Year
- 2020
- Study design
- Case-control study
- Participants
- 75
- What was tested
- Competitive sports participation
- Open access
- Yes
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.5603/gp.2020.0097
Topics
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