Conference Agenda

Introduction: Evidence suggests a bi-directional relationship between physical activity (PA) and menstrual cycle symptoms in girls and young women. However, limited evidence is available from girls and young women in the UK, or Europe, to guide approaches to supporting PA throughout the menstrual cycle. This abstract presents data describing Scottish girls’ and young women’s experiences of the menstrual cycle, PA and relevant education.

Methods: Participants in Scotland completed an online questionnaire (girls 12-18yrs, n=221 and young women 19-24yrs, n=153). Questions assessed menstrual symptoms, PA, perceived impact of the menstrual cycle, and education experiences.

Results: There was a high prevalence of girls and young women experiencing menstrual symptoms; 86% experienced period pain, and 94% rated at least one premenstrual symptom as moderate or severe. 85% reported that symptoms prevented PA participation, with pain the most frequently reported barrier. More young women than girls recognised PA helped them to feel better mentally (84% vs 47%) and physically (67% vs 34%) but 30% of participants did not feel informed of how to stay active throughout their menstrual cycle. Only 12% of young women and 34% of girls said they had received information on managing menstrual symptoms before their first period.

Conclusions: The study extends understanding of being active throughout the menstrual cycle, specifically relevant to a Scottish context. Findings indicate strategies to support girls and young women to be active throughout their menstrual cycle are needed.

Support/Funding Source: The study was funded by Scottish Action for Mental Health and Public Health Scotland.