The use of hormonal contraceptives in high performance Brazilian female swimmers: a cross-sectional study

Women may experience cognitive, emotional, and physical changes during the menstrual cycle, which can impact their physical and athletic performance. This study aimed to investigate whether Brazilian female swimmers in the senior category, i.e., over 18 years of age, federated with the Brazilian Confederation of Aquatic Sports (CBDA), use hormonal contraceptives (HCs) and assess the impacts on their health, athletic performance, and overall well-being.

This is a cross-sectional descriptive observational study conducted via an online questionnaire based on the Google Forms® platform, sent via WhatsApp® and email to the participants. Questions were asked about age, use of contraceptive methods, observed changes in performance, among others. A total of 136 senior athletes participated in the study. Inclusion criteria were senior female athletes using hormonal contraceptive methods. Athletes who were not in the senior category and/or did not use hormonal contraceptive methods were excluded from the research.

A total of 136 senior athletes responded to the questionnaire. Of this total, 108 reported using hormonal contraceptive methods and were therefore included in the study. The results indicate that the majority of participants use oral contraceptives, with 61 (57%) using this method. Regarding the reason for using hormonal contraceptives, 88 (82.4%) use the method to control the menstrual cycle, in addition to alleviating menstrual symptoms, 63 (59.2%); 62 (57.9%) reported improvement in mood patterns, and 69 (64.55%) stated that they experience benefits from using the method.

It is concluded that the use of hormonal contraceptives presents benefits related to the professional careers of athletes. Besides improving their training performance, HCs also help alleviate menstrual symptoms and control the menstrual cycle and flow.