A Mixed-Methods Survey Investigating the Perceived and Self-Reported Impact of Intermenstrual Pelvic Pain on Sport, Exercise, and Daily Activities in Active Women

Abstract

There is limited research on menstrual cycle symptoms (MCS) that can occur intermenstrually and the self-reported impact of these MCS. Using a mixed-methods approach, experiences of intermenstrual pelvic pain (IPP) were collected from 1,786 active women via an online anonymous survey between October and December 2023. Survey questions were informed by menstrual cycle research recommendations and qualitative research methodology. Differences in age, parity, and IPP between naturally menstruating participants and participants who were using a form of hormonal contraception were determined by independent t-test, Mann–Whitney U, and Pearson chi-square tests. Qualitative data from the open-ended questions were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results from the survey indicate that IPP had been experienced by 88.4% of participants. The majority reported that this moderately severe pain (5.52 ± 2.03) occurred on one side of the lower abdominal region and lasted for more than 12 hr. Themes in the qualitative research results included (a) identification of the physical and psychological symptoms experienced mid-cycle; (b) the perceived and self-reported impact of these symptoms on sport, exercise, and daily activities; and (c) the experiences of women with IPP when engaging with health care professionals. Our data suggests that IPP could contribute to negative mood states and have an impact on sport, exercise, and daily activities. Women felt dismissed by health care professionals and reported discontent with the medical support provided for their IPP experience. The results highlight the importance of considering individual MCS and the impact that these MCS may have on active women.