Breaking Period Stigma in Sports: Samin Abedkhojasteh's Journey

With the commencement of the Olympics and its aftermath, in collaboration with Days for Girls, we have launched an editorial series aimed at exploring the often undiscussed topic of menstruation's impact on female athletes through the stories of three female athletes. The athletes will delve into the unique challenges faced during their periods, from potential staining of uniforms to managing pain and effectively communicating menstrual needs to coaches. By shedding light on these experiences, the series hopes to raise awareness about the realities of menstruation in the world of sports. 

This is Samin Abedkhojasteh's story:

As a female athlete, there are several unique challenges related to the menstrual cycle that male athletes do not experience. The menstrual cycle can significantly impact both mental and physical performance. For example, the hormonal fluctuations throughout the cycle can lead to changes in mood, energy levels, and physical capacity. Competing during the menstrual phase, especially on days of heavy flow, can be particularly challenging due to discomfort, fatigue, and the need to manage menstrual symptoms while performing at a high level.

Additionally, cultural factors can compound these challenges. For instance, coming from a country like Iran, discussing menstrual-related issues with male coaches can be difficult. In some cultures, menstruation is a taboo subject, making it uncomfortable or even impossible for female athletes to communicate openly about their needs. This can lead to situations where female athletes feel pressured to participate in training activities that may not be suitable during certain phases of their menstrual cycle, such as heavy lifting or high-impact exercises, which could increase the risk of injury or exacerbate symptoms. I did not have these challenges in Indonesia and Europe when I was training there.

Competing during the menstrual phase, especially on days of heavy flow, can be particularly challenging due to discomfort, fatigue, and the need to manage menstrual symptoms while performing at a high level.