Physiological and perceived effects of the menstrual cycle on sport and exercise performance (Ref: SSEHS/VCEO24)

Women are participating in sport in unprecedented numbers. However, sports science research in female athletes remains surprisingly under-investigated. This has resulted in study findings from male-focused research being applied to females, and has resulted in a poor understanding of the effects of the menstrual cycle on exercise performance in female athletes.

Beyond reproduction, the ovarian hormones, namely estrogen and progesterone, exert biological effects on numerous physiological systems that are linked with exercise performance. Menstrual symptoms are also reported to impact exercise performance. Despite this, the effects of the fluctuations in ovarian hormones across menstrual cycle on exercise performance remain unclear.

By undertaking novel research approaches to address this important question, your work will contribute to better understanding of the independent and combined effects of the physiological and perceptual effects of the menstrual cycle on exercise performance in female athletes. Join us on this exciting journey and help us pave the way to improving support for female athletes and their practitioners. 

This project is part of the Health and Wellbeing of Women in Sport PhD cluster that brings together multidisciplinary project teams and cross cutting PhD projects.

94% of Loughborough’s research impact is rated world-leading or internationally excellent. REF 2021

Supervisors

Primary supervisor: Dr Emma O’Donnell

Secondary supervisors: Dr Richard Ferguson, Dr Laura Barrett

Entry requirements

Applicants must have, or expect to have, at least a 2:1 honours degree (or international equivalent) with a UK master’s degree (with average programme mark of no less than 65%) or international equivalent.

English language requirements

Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website.

How to apply

All applications should be made online. Under programme name, select the School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences. Please quote the advertised reference number: SSEHS/VCEO24 in your application.

To avoid delays in processing your application, please ensure that you submit the minimum supporting documents.

The following selection criteria will be used by academic schools to help them make a decision on your application.

Apply now