FEMALE-STUDENT

Background The menstrual cycle is a fundamental biological process that introduces considerable hormonal variability, affecting both physiological and psychological functioning in women. Although female participation in sports has grown, research focusing on women’s athletic health remains scarce, especially within African settings where cultural norms and structural barriers often marginalize menstrual health considerations. Aim This research investigated the impact of menstrual cycle phases on physical performance, symptom profiles, and self-management strategies among female athletes at the University of Benin, Nigeria, to generate evidence informed recommendations for cycle aware training and athlete support. Methods Fifty three female athletes participated in this repeated measures study. Physical performance indicators strength, endurance, agility, and reaction time—were evaluated across the menstrual, follicular, ovulatory, and luteal phases. Data on body weight fluctuations and self-reported symptoms were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA and Pearson’s correlation tests, with significance set at 0.05. Results Significant phase dependent variations in physical performance were observed (p < 0.05). Strength, endurance, and agility were lowest during the menstrual phase, improved during the follicular and ovulatory phases, and declined slightly in the luteal phase. Reaction time was also slower during menstruation. Although body weight remained relatively stable, a significant phase related difference emerged, with slightly lower weight during the menstrual and follicular phases and higher values during ovulation and the luteal phase. A negative correlation was found between changes in body weight and endurance between the ovulatory and luteal phases (r = −0.313, p = 0.023). Frequently reported symptoms included cramps and fatigue during menstruation, bloating during ovulation, and irritability during the luteal phase. Approximately 40 percent of athletes did not track their cycles, and coaches were largely unaware of the performance variations linked to menstrual phases. Conclusion Menstrual cycle phases significantly influence physical performance among female athletes. The conventional “one size fits all” training model fails to accommodate their unique physiological changes. Individualized, cycle sensitive training programs that incorporate menstrual tracking and athlete coach communication are essential to enhance performance, reduce injury risk, and promote well being.