What Kind of Women’s Health Issues do Athletes Have? A Physiotherapist’s Perspective
By Physiotherapist Hannah Bennett
As a high-level Volleryball Player myself, a previous Gymnastics Coach, and now a Physiotherapist, I often encounter unique challenges when working with female athletes. Many of us either are unaware that we have womens health-type symptoms that can be improved, we tolerate symptoms, or we are not sure where to go to discuss our symptoms because we may be embarrassed or unsure of the pathway.
While women are incredibly resilient and capable of performing at the highest levels in sports, they face specific health concerns that do require raising awareness, conversation, 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. RED-S (relative energy deficiency in sport), LEA (low energy availability) and subsequent effects
Previously referred to as the 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 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 I can help you with:
– Pelvic Pain
– Pelvic region pain or incontinence during activity or sport
– Return to Sport post-partum
– Postpartum Rehabilitation
– Urinary Incontinence
– Urinary Urgency and Frequency
– Faecal Incontinence
– Constipation and Bowel Health
– Pelvic Organ Prolapse- Preparation for Labour
– Pregnancy related Pains (e.g. lower back pain)
Conclusion
Women health in sport is multi-faceted and requires a holistic approach to treatment and prevention. As a physiotherapist, I 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!
