Features of the influence of the menstrual cycle on the physical performance of female athletes

Abstract

The article provides a review of recent publications on the influence of female menstrual cycle hormones on athletic performance.As demonstrated, hormonal fluctuations of the menstrual cycle trigger numerous processes in the body related to reproduction.Purpose. The aim of the study was to evaluate, based on the literature, the current state of scientific research regarding the impact of the hormonal cycle on the physical performance of female athletes.Materials and methods. Research methods. Within the framework of this review article, a systematic approach to literature analysis was applied. Scientific databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were used for data collection.A total of 1,563 articles were reviewed. The search was conducted using the following keywords: «hormonal cycle», «physical performance», «female athletes», «menstrual cycle» and «hormonal fluctuations». A total of 102 articles were selected, of which 54 met the inclusion criteria.Results. Hormonal fluctuations of the menstrual cycle affect many processes in the body related to reproduction. A significant number of studies have shown interest in the influence of the menstrual cycle on sports performance. The study highlights significant difficulties in studying this issue, as the hormonal profile can change in cases of menstrual cycle disorders, such as luteal phase defects or anovulation, as well as with the use of oral contraceptives. The study highlights significant challenges in investigating the issue, as the hormonal profile may vary in cases of menstrual cycle irregularities, such as luteal phase defects or anovulation, as well as with the use of oral contraceptives.Studies have shown that the decline in performance and the worst results are to be found in the late luteal phase and early follicular phase, as there is a decline in both progesterone and estrogen. This is probably why the body is not ready to reach its maximum levels.It has also been shown that women with anovulation or luteal phase defects have a relative energy deficit in sports, which can lead to an increased incidence of injuries and reduced adaptation to training and subsequent performance. There is a possibility of serious complications, including low bone mineral density, increased risk of injury, decreased coordination, and decreased muscle strength.Nevertheless, most researchers agree that the late follicular phase and ovulation are the optimal stages for training focused on speed and explosiveness, as well as the development of more complex jumps and sprints. In contrast, during the luteal phase, it is advisable to conduct lower-intensity training sessions that range between the minimal effective volume and the adaptive maximum. Studies have also shown that menstrual cycle hormones primarily affect training sessions requiring efforts close to the athlete's maximum capacity. The influence of the menstrual cycle, evident only in the most intense types of elite training, may partially explain the current conflicting results in research. Conclusions. 1. The importance of coaches’ awareness of the menstrual cycle. 2. The necessity of an individualized approach.3. Optimizing the training process through cycle adaptation. 4. Injury prevention and performance enhancement. 5. The need for educational efforts.