Publication Date
2026
College
College of Professional Studies
Department
School of Applied Health
Document Type
Poster
Description
This literature review examines how anatomical sex differences and menstrual cycle–related hormonal fluctuations interact to influence performance, fatigue, and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury risk in female athletes. While females experience higher rates of ACL injuries and unique physiological changes across the menstrual cycle, existing research often studies these factors in isolation or relies on male-based models. This review synthesizes current findings on structural characteristics such as joint alignment and ligament laxity alongside hormonal variations in estrogen, progesterone, and relaxin. It highlights how these factors may collectively affect neuromuscular control, tissue integrity, and performance variability, particularly in sports involving cutting and pivoting. The goal is to identify gaps in the literature and emphasize the need for individualized, female-specific training and injury prevention strategies.