Team sports are not only about getting your body moving, but they also appear to be a great way to relieve stress.

During the luteal phase, your body may be getting less oxygen so you may feel more exhausted and less inclined to participate in team sports.

PMS and team sports

It has been proven that PMS can disrupt your ability to participate in team sports. While some women may seem to be OK with PMS, others can feel too crampy or bloated. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 85% of women suffer from PMS.  

In addition to the cramping, you may experience physical symptoms such as joint and muscle pain, headaches, weight gain, and low energy levels. This happens due to lower amounts of estrogen and progesterone in your body.

Insomnia, irritability, poor concentration, and appetite changes also appear disruptive to physical activity. In other words, if you’re suffering from PMS, you may want to skip a few days of team sports.

What if I’m on my period?

Playing sports and having your period can definitely go hand in hand. Women/girls who are physically active actually tolerate their periods better than those who are not. Consider what you will be wearing, how long you will be gone from home, and what type of restroom facilities will be available. If you prefer wearing pads, make sure your underwear fits well, and use a pad with good coverage. If tampons are your fave, make sure to wear the right absorbency and change as directed. You might want to pack a small bag with extras (underwear, pads, tampons) and keep some hand sanitizer and a small package of wipes readily available in case the restroom that is provided is not well stocked.

Sources:

Does the menstrual cycle affect sporting performance? medicalnewstoday.com