Abstract
Menstrual dysfunction is a common phenomenon in sport and many women describe that aspects of their menstrual cycle negatively impact their sport participation, performance, and experiences. However, there is little research examining if competition level plays a role in women athletes' rates and experiences of menstrual function/dysfunction. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to explore and describe differences in rates and experiences of menstrual function/dysfunction between athletes of differing competition levels. An online mixed methods approach was used. Women athletes (N = 63), between 14 and 39 years of age (M = 24.20, SD = 6.53), competing in a range of sports from the local to international level completed an anonymous interview style online survey to generate data. Data analysis for this project was an iterative and integrated process where quantitative and qualitative data were considered together and are represented through reported statistics and generated themes. Although group differences were hypothesized, there were no differences based on competition level in rates or experiences of menstrual function/dysfunction. In addition to detailed descriptive statistics, five themes were generated: Normalizing Dysfunction; Menstrual Symptoms; Clothing as a Distraction; Participation Impact; and Regaining Control. In line with previous research, the women in this study experienced a range of menstrual dysfunctions that impacted their sport experiences. Additionally, this study highlights that regardless of competition level or sport type women face challenges in sport regarding menstrual function and due to the normalization of dysfunction in sport women athletes' health and well-being are not always supported.Acknowledgments: This research was funded through a Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation Postdoctoral Research Fellowship held by the first author.