Period pain is common, but the amount of pain people experience varies greatly.
A player may be able to train normally with mild cramps. Another may feel sick, dizzy or unable to run comfortably.
Start with the player, not an assumption
Ask:
“How are you feeling?”
“Do you want to carry on, reduce what you’re doing, or take a break?”
Do not assume that every player needs to stop because they are on their period. Equally, do not make a player prove that their pain is “bad enough” to rest.
Practical support
Depending on the situation, support may include:
- a short break
- easier access to the toilet
- drinking water
- sitting somewhere private and comfortable
- contacting a parent or carer
- stopping the session if they feel unwell
Follow your club's policies around medication. A coach should not diagnose symptoms or recommend medication outside the club's agreed procedures.
When pain needs more attention
NHS guidance says that period pain should be medically assessed when it is severe or affects daily life. If a young player regularly misses school, training, matches or sleep because of pain, encourage their parent/carer to seek healthcare advice.
Seek prompt help if a player is in severe pain, feels faint, becomes very unwell or you are concerned about their immediate condition.
Helpful LTM links
Explore related support
Related player support