44%
What the research says
Of UK girls aged 12–18 who had started their periods, 44% reported being unable to take part in sport or physical activity because of period symptoms.
The 44% finding comes from a survey of 3,001 girls aged 12–18, of whom 2,620 had started menstruating (Wellbeing of Women, December 2023). It concerns reported disruption to sporting participation, not a measured reduction in athletic performance or evidence that 44% of all adult women miss sport.
A separate February 2025 consumer survey found 51% of surveyed women said they avoid exercise on their period. The two surveys asked different people different questions, so they should not be combined.
See all 53 research sourcesSport / Common language
Your experience. Not a performance stereotype.
01
Notice how today feels
Pain, tiredness, sleep and stress can all affect a session. A cycle phase alone does not tell you how well you will perform. Avoid treating a calendar as a reason you cannot take part.
02
Ask your coach
“I’m having period symptoms today. Can we adjust the session? I don’t want my private health details shared.” Options to discuss include breaks, bathroom access or changing the activity.
03
When to get help
Pain that keeps you out of sport or normal activities deserves a conversation with a trusted adult or GP. Do not feel you must push through severe symptoms.
Keep the conversation going