Girls are leaving sport because of period stigma—but simple changes can keep them playing

In the lead-up to International Women's Day (8 March), researchers are drawing attention to a persistent and largely hidden barrier to gender equity in sport: inadequate support for girls during menstruation. The latest research from Federation University shows period-related challenges are quietly driving girls out of organized sport, with nearly 1 in 5 girls aged 10 to 16 considering dropping out altogether.

The study, conducted in partnership with Swimming Victoria and Little Athletics Victoria, and published in the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, found that about two-thirds report missing training, with 1 in 3 missing competitions altogether.

Close to 92% of participants reported worrying about leaking or bleeding through uniforms, while more than 75% reported being unable to change their period protection during competitions.

Researcher and academic Jane Strachan said period stigma remains a significant barrier to girls' ongoing participation in sport.

"When girls feel they have to manage their periods in secret, sport becomes stressful at exactly the age they're deciding whether to stay involved," Strachan said. "Instead of focusing on improving their skills and enjoying the game, they're worrying about the cut of their uniform or potentially bleeding through."

Co-author Dr. Meghan Casey said the problem was further compounded by the fact that many sports clubs and schools still lack basic support, including disposal bins, accessible toilets, private changing spaces and readily available period products.

"When these essentials aren't provided, the burden falls entirely on girls," Dr. Casey said. "Keeping girls in sport doesn't have to be overly complicated—there are simple changes clubs and schools can make that are effective, inclusive and easy to implement."

The researchers propose five practical steps clubs and schools can take immediately to make sport more inclusive, supportive and period-friendly for girls:

1. Provide free period products where girls need them, without requiring them to ask
2. Ensure toilets and changerooms are equipped with bins, soap, water and privacy
3. Reduce uniform anxiety by offering darker colors, alternative fits and choice
4. Train coaches, teachers and parents in "period confident" communication. Many adults avoid the topic because they're worried about saying the wrong thing—but girls interpret avoidance as confirmation that periods are shameful
5. Build flexibility into training and competition, from offering modified training to supporting athletes who need to change protection mid-session

This International Women's Day, the researchers say it's a timely reminder that small, practical steps can make a big difference.

"Together these changes send a powerful message to girls: you belong here all month," Strachan said.

"When periods are treated as normal, girls are more likely to stay engaged, confident and active—which benefits clubs and our whole community," Dr. Casey added.

More information:
Jane F. Strachan et al, "What are my options here? I don't want to stop training or miss competitions." Navigating the impact of early years of menstruation in organised sports, among girls 10–16 years, Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport (2026). DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2025.07.006

Provided by Federation University Australia