Menstrual Dysfunction: Menstrual dysfunction is a disorder or irregularity in women's menstrual cycle. In other words, it can be defined as an'abnormal bleeding'during the menstrual cycle. Normal menstrual cycle varies from 21 to 35 days. Its flow lasts approximately two to seven days. Menstrual irregularities seem to be higher in women athletes in comparison to non-athletic women.
Menstruation and Sports Participation: Earlier, most of the people used to believe that participation in sports during menstruation could be physiologically harmful. Recent studies conducted in this field show that there has been no basis or evidence of dysmenorrhoea (painful menstruation) of any consequence as a result of intensive participation in sports. In fact, there have been recent reports to indicate complete absence of menstruation in women who usually get trained for long duration in running.
However, it is not applicable for all the women sportspersons or in all the sports. Some studies indicate that sport participation is beneficial in relieving pain and preventing dysmenorrhoea. Even research studies show that a small number of women participating in sports experience dysmenorrhoea in comparison to non-participants.
Some studies also indicate that there is no specific effect on sports performance during all phases of the menstrual cycle, because international records have been set in all the stages of menstrual cycle. Research studies also show that women's strength decreases a few days prior to menstruation and continues to remain at slightly lower level throughout the menstrual period. In conclusion, it can be said that there is no impediment or barrier to a sportswoman to engage even in competitive sports on any day of the month. Menstruation is not a problem in the way of achieving top sports performance.