Athlete Discusses Period Concerns and Normalizing Menstruation in Sports
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Published December 30, 2025, at 13:12:47 PST
The Issue of Period Concerns During Athletic Competition
Athletes, notably those in sports with white uniforms, face anxieties about potential leaks during competition. Concerns about visibility and potential embarrassment lead some to take extreme measures to avoid incidents.
Former athlete Hartley, age 32, revealed the lengths some players go to manage menstruation during games. She stated that many would prefer to avoid the risk of a visible leak while wearing white uniforms.
Preventative Measures Taken by Athletes
Hartley described a common practise among athletes: frequently changing clothes during breaks. ”Every drinks break I would go off the field and change every hour just to be safe,” she explained. Some athletes even resort to using pantiliners for added security.
The concern isn’t merely about practical issues; its also about the social stigma surrounding menstruation. hartley emphasized the importance of normalizing conversations about periods,stating,”If a young girl is listening to the radio and hears I am on my period she will go ’oh that is totally normal for people to talk about it’.”
Breaking the Taboo and Receiving Support
Hartley believes that open discussion is crucial to destigmatizing menstruation.”It shouldn’t be taboo. Females shouldn’t be scared to talk about their periods. It is normal and natural,” she asserted. Her openness on the topic resonated with many, as she received an overwhelming response from the public.
Hartley reported receiving 4,000 direct messages expressing gratitude for her willingness to discuss the issue. This demonstrates a clear desire for more open conversations about menstruation, particularly within the context of sports and athletic performance.
