Effects of the Menstrual Cycle on the Prevalence of Musculoskeletal Injuries Amongst Female Athletes

Background: During the menstrual cycle (MC), neuromuscular performance varies among female athletes, and MC has been identified as an intrinsic risk factor for the development of musculoskeletal injuries. However, limited studies that demonstrate the extent to which the MC influences injury risk. Previous literature regarding the topic has focused mostly on the impact of the MC on overall sports performance among female athletes, as opposed to its impact on injury risk specifically. Therefore, the aim of this study was to establish the effects of MC on injury prevalence and risk among female athletes competing at the university level. Methods: An online questionnaire was distributed to seventy-six female athletes competing at various levels in different sporting codes at the University of Johannesburg over a period of 3 months. Data were analysed quantitatively using the Statistical Package of Social Sciences (SPSS, version 28) Results: Ankle and wrist sprains (32%) and muscle strain (18%) injuries were found to be the most common types of musculoskeletal injuries. Participants with early and/or late menarche had a greater prevalence of ligament sprains and dislocations. Participants with MC lengths of 24 to 26 days and 27 to 29 days reported a greater occurrence of ligament sprains (41% & 47%) and muscle strains (14% & 24%), whereas ligament sprains (25%) and dislocations (19%) were common among participants with MC lengths of 30 to 35 days. Conclusion: The findings showed that the most common injuries among female athletes included ligament sprains, dislocations and muscle strains. This highlights the importance of training modification throughout the MC. This study helps broaden the knowledge of female athletes and the sports industry on the effects of the MC on injury occurrence and functionality of the female body.