The influence of the phases of the menstrual cycle on the performance of female athletes

Abstract

This review article examines in detail the peculiarities of the menstrual cycle from a biological point of view. Hormonal features of the female body that determine the course of the menstrual cycle are considered; levels of organization and mechanisms of regulation of cyclical processes, as well as the interrelationship of various body systems in terms of the menstrual cycle are overviewed. The phases of the menstrual cycle and the main changes at the hormonal and physiological level that affect the performance of sportswomen are examined. The issue of working capacity of female athletes in different phases of the menstrual cycle in correlation with changes in the endocrine system is considered. The impact of individual perceiving is also raised. The question of performing physical exercises in the phases of the cycle, which are typically associated with the greatest physiological manifestations, was also investigated. As a result, the conclusion has been made that since menstrual cycle is the nature matter and indicates appropriate health state of a woman, physical activity does not have to be cut out completely during any phase. Detailed analysis of hormone levels at different phases indicated that the effectiveness of working out may vary from phase to phase due to numerous effects of every hormone on different body systems at once. The statement that it is important to alterate the levels of activity from phase to phase to achieve better results has also been made.