‘It's scary’ – Arsenal's Jodie Taylor highlights link between periods and ACL injuries in Eurosport panel debate

Arsenal striker Jodie Taylor says the link between menstrual cycles and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in women’s football is “scary” and must be addressed, speaking in a special Eurosport period panel debate. The 40-minute show features two prominent athletes in European Indoor long jump champion Jazmin Sawyers and 51-time England international Taylor, as well as women’s health and performance expert Dr Emma Ross. Ad The in-depth discussion hosted by Orla Chennaoui will be aired on Sunday morning at 09:00 UK time as part of Menstrual Hygiene Day.

Women's Champions LeagueEidevall says Arsenal are hurt, empty but proud after Champions League heartbreak02/05/2023 AT 11:22 One of the issues raised by the panel was the link between periods and injury, particularly the prevalence of ACL injuries in female athletes. “There's a lot more ACL injuries in football now than there ever has been, and it's just getting worse and worse,” Taylor said. “I think it's so complex.

I do think menstrual cycles are a huge part of it. I think it's loads, load management, it's the amount of games that we’re playing, and it all ties together. Hopefully, the more research that comes out will help.

Because it is an issue. It is scary. “You know, I think you've seen it… all your team-mates around you dropping with their ACLs.

It's not a great thing to see. But it's something that really needs to be addressed. “That’s from FIFA, from a FIFA level of competition scheduling — the number of games that we're playing, lack of rest, lack of recovery, understanding of where you're at in the cycle, your period, being able to take the break when you need it.