The Effect of the Menstrual Cycle on Muscle Performance: A Narrative review | ||||
| International Physical Therapy Conference - Cairo University | ||||
| Volume 4, Issue 1 - Serial Number 20251, 2025, Page 44-62 PDF (495.16 K) | ||||
| Document Type: Original Article | ||||
| DOI: 10.21608/iptccu.2025.438010 | ||||
 View on SCiNiTO | ||||
| Authors | ||||
Nourhan M. M. Amer  1; Amel Mohamed Yousef2; Ihab Kamal Mohamed Younis3; Mai M. A. Shehata4
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| 1B.Sc. of Physical Therapy (2019-2020), Faculty of Physical Therapy, Misr University for Science and Technology | ||||
| 2Professor of Physical Therapy for Women’s Health, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University | ||||
| 3Lecturer of obstetrics and gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Misr university for science and technology | ||||
| 4Lecturer of Physical Therapy for Women’s Health, Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University | ||||
| Abstract | ||||
| Background: The menstrual cycle (MC) significantly influences womens’ physiological functions, affecting endurance, power, and general sports capabilities. Hormonal variations throughout the cycle affect metabolism, recovery process of the muscles, body temperature control, cardiovascular responses, and psychological stability. Understanding these fluctuations is essential for tailoring exercising and competetive plans for women athletes. Objective: This review consolidates recent research on how different MC phases has an influence on athletic performance, with a particular focus on endurance, power, neuromuscular functionalities, and fatigue perception. Methods: A comprehensive review of peer-reviewed literature was carried out utilizing databases including PubMed, Scopus, Google scholar and Web of Science. Results: Hormonal shifts throughout MC affect endurance, strength, and subjective performance. The follicular stage is associated with improved muscle relief, neuromuscular effectiveness, and cardiovascular function, which may enhance performance; however, Ligament laxity could elevate injury probability. During ovulation, energy attainability is optimized, though heightened joint laxity may increase injury susceptibility. The luteal stage presents physiological difficulties such as a rise in body temperature, cardiovascular tension, and an elevated perception of excertion, which may negatively affect endurance. Despite the fluctuations, there is no universal recommendation for adjusting training based on the MC. Conversly, individualized tracking of menstrual cycle and adaptive training approaches may be more efficient in optimizing sports proficiency in female athletes. | ||||
| Keywords | ||||
| menstrual cycle; athletic performance; female athletes; exercise physiology; muscle strength; muscle endurance | ||||
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