Training and the female menstrual cycle

Have you ever noticed problems with your energy levels, or experience more fatigue during your monthly cycle? ​

Research has shown that female athletes are at higher risk of injury during menstruation and have different levels of knee joint position sense across their menstrual cycle. Knee joint position sense accuracy decreases when hormones are low (during menstruation). 

Midway through the cycle, the level of the female sex hormone oestrogen, which gives strength to muscles and ligaments, drops dramatically, resulting in sudden weakness. 

At the end of the cycle levels of another hormone, relaxin, rise. This is to allow the cervix to open so that menstruation can occur, but it also means the ligaments in general are softened. Researchers found that strains and other injuries were more likely at both these stages.

(Research also showed that women on the combined pill, who do not experience sudden drops in their oestrogen levels, are less likely to experience injury as the result of loosened joints.)

The GB34 acupuncture point is used to strengthen your ligaments and tendons. Motor points connect the brain, the nervous system and the muscles together so they function properly. Acupuncture can also regulate your hormones and help you recover more quickly if you are injured. Acupuncture reduces swelling, pain and encourages more blood to flow toward and nourish the injured area.

So rest, do not plan peak workouts and races during your period!  And of course get acupuncture :-) 

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