'You're malnourished; you are overtrained': Olympic gymnast's warning
Olympic rhythmic gymnast Alexandra Kiroi-Bogatyreva revealed she was malnourished and overtrained, leading to delayed and irregular menstruation throughout her career. She and other elite female athletes are calling for greater awareness and education around women's health in sports. Many athletes report that menstrual irregularities are often ignored or even seen as a sign of fitness.
- ▪Alexandra Kiroi-Bogatyreva did not get her first period until age 19 and only menstruated once a year during breaks from training.
- ▪Doctors told her she was malnourished and overtrained, lacking the energy for normal bodily functions like menstruation.
- ▪A survey of 152 women and gender diverse athletes found 75% experienced menstrual irregularities and the same percentage said their cycles were not considered in training programs.
- ▪Many athletes reported that coaching staff dismissed menstrual issues, with some told to train even when bedridden due to period-related chronic illness.
- ▪Kiroi-Bogatyreva and others advocate for better education and support for female athletes regarding menstrual health and its impact on performance and well-being.
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Malnourished and overtrained, Olympic gymnast didn't have energy for a periodBy Johanna McDiarmidTopic:SportSun 17 May 2026 at 5:32amSun 17 May 2026 at 5:32amSun 17 May 2026 at 5:32amAlexandra Kiroi-Bogatyreva got her first period at 19, and says no one questioned why. (Europa Press via Getty Images: Oscar J Barroso)abc.net.au/news/menstrual-irregularities-womens-health-education-abc-survey/106597534Link copiedShareShare articleAlexandra Kiroi-Bogatyreva spent years sacrificing her health for a shot at making the Olympics."I was so driven that injuries didn't stop me," the 24-year-old told ABC Sport."I really wanted to achieve my goals, show the world what I'm capable of and give back to my family."The rhythmic gymnast competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics and medalled at the 2018 and 2022…
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