The countdown to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup has begun, and the United States Women’s National Team is leaving no stone unturned in their preparation. Among the myriad of factors they consider, one stands out for its unique approach: the integration of menstrual cycle awareness into their training and support systems.
This innovative strategy is spearheaded by Georgie Bruinvels, the team’s female health consultant. Bruinvels, who has dedicated more than a decade to studying the impact of menstrual cycles on athletic performance, brings a wealth of knowledge to the team. Her work with Emma Hayes at Chelsea Football Club Women before joining the USWNT underscores her commitment to advancing female athlete health.
Beyond the Pitch: Holistic Support for Athletes
Bruinvels’ role extends far beyond game days or World Cup preparation. She focuses on what she calls “the other 22 hours of the day,” addressing the myriad of challenges athletes face off the pitch. These challenges include travel, increasing game schedules, environmental considerations, and media demands. The growing popularity of soccer in the U.S. places athletes in the spotlight, often without the necessary mental health training to cope with the sudden attention.
“Players may feel like they’re being pummeled from all angles,” Bruinvels explains. “There’s so much they suddenly have to juggle.” Her approach aims to create a supportive environment that addresses these multifaceted demands, ensuring athletes can perform at their best.
Normalizing Menstrual Cycle Awareness
One of the most significant contributions of Bruinvels’ work is the normalization of conversations around the menstrual cycle. At U.S. Soccer, this is not just about acknowledging symptoms but taking actionable steps to support players. This includes optimizing nutrition, recovery, and sleep based on individual needs and cycle phases.
“One big myth is that your period will hinder you,” Bruinvels states. “If you empower players about their nutrition, recovery, sleep, or mindset and support them through a female lens, then I don’t think the menstrual cycle should hold them back.” This philosophy extends beyond the world of professional sports, offering valuable insights for non-athletes as well.
Cycle Syncing: A Tool for Everyone
For those outside the realm of professional sports, the concept of cycle syncing has gained traction. This practice involves aligning workouts and daily routines with the phases of the menstrual cycle. Bruinvels emphasizes the importance of tracking cycles and symptoms, whether through a diary, calendar, or app. Increasing one’s knowledge about their cycle is a crucial first step.
“It should be thought of as a vital sign,” Bruinvels explains. “If your cycle gets a bit longer or a bit shorter or if your symptoms get worse or your bleeding gets heavier, that is your body telling you something.” Understanding these patterns can help individuals make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
The Benefits of Tracking
Tracking cycles and symptoms can provide valuable insights into how hormonal changes affect the body. These changes influence various aspects of health, including brain function, heart rate, body temperature, breathing, and appetite. By recognizing patterns, individuals can tailor their routines to better support their bodies.
For example, someone might notice increased energy levels at certain points in their cycle and plan more intense workouts accordingly. Conversely, during phases of lower energy, they might focus on restorative activities and adjust their diet to prevent energy crashes. Understanding one’s normal cycle can also help in managing symptoms like menstrual cramps through targeted interventions such as stretching, using heat, and maintaining a balanced diet.
As the United States Women’s National Team continues to set the standard for female athlete support, their approach to menstrual health serves as a model for others. By empowering athletes with knowledge and tailored support, they are breaking down barriers and paving the way for future generations.
