Effect of menstrual cycle on exercise performance and cardiovascular responses in female long‐distance runners

Abstract

PurposeThe aim of the study was to investigate the effects of the menstrual cycle on exercise performance and cardiovascular responses in female long‐distance runners.MethodsFifteen well‐trained female long‐distance runners aged 19.4±1.1 years were monitored for basal body temperature (BBT), systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP, DBP) and heart rate (HR) every morning for 2 months. They also recorded their menstrual periods, and ratings of perceived exertion (RPE) as exercise performance during the menstrual phase, the follicular phase, and the luteal phase.ResultSeven runners had normal menstrual cycle (NMC). Eight runners had abnormal menstrual cycle (AMC), including polymenorrhea (n = 2), oligomenorrhea (n = 3) and amenorrhea (n = 3). SBP, DBP, and RPE were significantly higher in the menstrual phase than in the follicular phase in runners with NMC, whereas SBP and DBP did not change significantly during the menstrual cycle in those with AMC. SBP and DBP tended to be higher in the luteal phase than in the follicular phase in runners with NMC. HR did not change significantly during the menstrual cycle in either group.ConclusionA large number of female long‐distance runners appear to have menstrual disturbances, and increased SBP and DBP in the menstrual phase may negatively influence exercise performance.