Menstrual Pain: the missing part of phase based training? Episode 124 with Michelle Lyons

Hello and welcome to today's solo episode!

I recently came across two 2026 articles that really got me thinking about how menstrual pain may be the missing link in phase based training...and so I thought a podcast episode would be a good idea!

In this episode, I discuss the overlooked impact of menstrual pain on female athletic performance, arguing that pain may be a more significant performance variable than hormonal cycle phases that currently receive much attention in sports science.

My goal was to highlight that primary dysmenorrhea affects approximately 60% of female athletes, with 50-100% reporting performance limitations due to period pain, yet this issue is often addressed through medication rather than comprehensive treatment approaches.

I wanted to emphasise that pelvic rehabilitation should be incorporated into discussions about menstrual cycle management, as pain affects brain processing, movement, breathing, and decision-making in ways that can substantially impact sporting performance.

I propose a "menstrual audit" consisting of seven simple questions to better assess and address menstrual pain symptoms rather than focusing solely on cycle phases, and of course if you want to learn more...this is exactly why I created my online course "The Menstrual Detective" for clinicians and coaches working with female athletes - to improve menstrual literacy, to understand how to have the MC health conversation and how to identify and manage menstrual dysfunction - when it hurts, when it's too much and when it disappears.

All the info is at CelebrateMuliebrity.com - or if you have questions about the course, you can find me on instagram at @michellelyons_muliebrity

Until next time, Onwards & Upwards! Mx #celebratemuliebrity