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Women-Specific Health Factors in Community-Level Australian Football Players
Sallie M Cowan1,2, Kay M Crossley1,2, Michael A Girdwood1,2
1La Trobe Sport and Exercise Medicine Research Centre, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
Journal of Sport Rehabilitation
|March 6, 2026
Summary
Women in community Australian football experience diverse health issues, including menstrual irregularities and breast injuries. Understanding these women-specific health needs is crucial for improving participation and well-being in the sport.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Women's Health
- Public Health
Background:
- Women's participation in Australian Football has surged since 2017.
- Community-level female players' sociodemographic and health factors are under-examined.
- Understanding these factors is key to supporting player well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe sociodemographic factors in women playing community Australian football.
- To identify general medical and women-specific health issues in this population.
- To explore relationships between sociodemographic factors and health conditions.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional survey design.
- Participants were community Australian football players in an injury prevention trial.
- Online surveys (REDCAP®) data were collated and summarized.
Main Results:
- Common issues: irregular periods (23.9%), polycystic ovarian syndrome (4.8%), endometriosis (3.6%), pelvic floor dysfunction (3.5%).
- A quarter (25.6%) reported breast injury history, often causing pain or bruising.
- Higher BMI correlated with breast injury history (OR 1.03).
Conclusions:
- Community Australian football players report varied health experiences, including menstrual and breast issues.
- Addressing women-specific health needs is vital for enhancing participation and retention.
- Findings underscore the importance of tailored support for female athletes.
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