menstrual cycle

The pain was centred in her hip and initially coincided with her menstrual cycle, but developed to be a constant, agonising problem.

This is among the ways teams have been trying to ensure their players are able to perform at the highest level throughout their menstrual cycle.

The lack of research that includes female participants is partly down to menstrual cycles and fluctuating hormones, making it more "complicated to track", Ms Patel explains.

The menstrual cycle is orchestrated by the rhythmic fluctuations of two hormones – oestrogen and progesterone.

Research also suggests oestrogen peaks during menstrual cycles can reduce joint stability.