Periods stopped Vanessa participating in sport and she's not alone

For Vanessa Ozols, a national-level swimmer with a disability, the pool offers a sense of safety and belonging. However, managing her period has historically presented significant challenges, forcing her to skip training sessions. Ozols, who lives with autism, an intellectual impairment, and hereditary angioedema, found traditional period products like tampons uncomfortable and unsuitable.

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I just feel like I have this level of understanding with them, and a strong bond

"On days when I've had my period, I just didn't feel very motivated to swim," Ozols told ABC Sport. Her experience is not unique. New research from Victoria University and the charity Share the Dignity reveals that a staggering 68% of disabled girls and women regularly skip sports because of their period.

This statistic highlights a critical barrier to participation, as only about 12% of disabled women currently engage in sports regularly, often due to limited opportunities, funding, and access. The research, which surveyed 273 individuals who regularly participate in sports, with swimming being the most popular activity, aims to understand and address the impact of menstruation on disabled athletes.

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On days when I've had my period, I just didn't feel very motivated to swim

Lead researcher Professor Clare Hanlon stated that sport should be accessible to everyone and that the impact of menstruation needs urgent attention. Over a third of respondents avoided sports due to a lack of necessary period products. Many struggled with sensory issues related to pads, tampons, and menstrual cups, while others with physical disabilities lacked the dexterity to use certain products. Concerns about leakage also affected confidence, compounded by inaccessible or unclean toilet and changing facilities.

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We wanted to identify how and what needs to occur to change this

Furthermore, a significant lack of education and communication was identified, with 61% of respondents unsure how to discuss their period needs with sports staff. Professor Hanlon emphasized the importance of individualizing support, noting that "not one solution fits all." The findings present opportunities for national sporting organizations, local clubs, and product suppliers to adapt their services and environments to better meet the needs of the disability community.

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Our findings showed the importance of asking individuals about what their needs are and that not one solution fits all