Table 3 Factors that were mentioned to optimize care around menstrual problems in athletes (in bold; most important factors according to the corresponding group)
From: Absence of menstruation in female athletes: why they do not seek help
Group 1 | Group 2 | Group 3 |
|---|---|---|
Informing federations/coaches/trainers/mentors | Educate general practitioners | Informing coaches/trainers, responsibility |
Fixed team doctor/trainer etc | Care for non-top athletes | Realistic image of consequences |
Gynaecologist with sufficient knowledge early in the process | Create awareness/break taboos through social media/presentations | Starting the conversation with athletes |
Sports doctor with the right knowledge | Informing coaches through sports federations | Confidential adviser |
Mentioning concerns about the future/fertility | No clear difference between male and female doctors | Education/informing |
Female doctors/care providers | Helicopter view | Discuss risks with athlete/educate |
Red flag list at general practitioner, refer to specialist when necessary | Attention to nutrition/eating problems | Involve sports physician |
Shared clinic/consultation: gynaecologist + sports physician | Informing parents | Involve psychologist |
Other specialisms: gastroenterologist, endocrinologist, pulmonologist | Breaking the taboo/being taken seriously | Involve sport dietician |
Casemanager | Knowledge in schools | Signalling function for trainer and paramedic care |
Regionally bound network | ||
Breaking the taboo; must become normal to discuss it | ||
Role model who does menstruate | ||
Better background information/guidelines for general practitioner |