In addition to the impact of the menstrual cycle on female rugby player’s performance, coaches need to be aware of key considerations that may affect the performance of female players, including:
Consideration
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Description
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Breast Health
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- The anatomical location of the breasts exposes female athletes to direct impact which may lead to injuries such as breast contusions and hematomas.
- Adequate breast support is crucial as poor breast support can lead to breast-related pain which can impact performance and overall quality of life.
- World Rugby Women's Health Resources - Breast Health
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Pelvic Floor Function
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- Females are at risk of pelvic floor dysfunction across their lifespan with particular risk during transitional times e.g., pregnancy, childbirth and ageing. However, young nulliparous athletes are also at risk of leaking particularly in exertional sports such as Rugby. For example, this type of leaking that occurs during physical exertion is called stress urinary incontinence (SUI).
- Activities such as tackling, landing from jumps, rucks and scrums can lead to increased intra-abdominal pressure which can overload the pelvic floor muscles leading to an increased likelihood of SUI.
- Getting pelvic floor ‘ready’ for Rugby involves a whole-person approach that considers pelvic floor muscle function, sporting task strategies, load tolerance, energy levels and much more. Further information and advice about pelvic floor considerations in Rugby players can be found in the following resources: (Donnelly et al 2023).
- World Rugby Women's Health Resources - Pelvic Health
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Pregnancy and Childbirth
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- Pregnancy and childbirth can lead to physical and psychological changes to the abdominal wall, pelvic floor muscles, breasts, body mass, nutritional requirements, hormonal considerations and psychological considerations.
- Player Welfare Guidelines - Pregnancy
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