Navigating Menopause: Understanding Its Impact on Brain Health and Mental Wellbeing

Highlighting Key Findings from the 2025 Female Athlete Conference on Women’s Health

Update Unveiling the Insights from the 2025 Female Athlete Conference The 2025 Female Athlete Conference (FAC), held from June 4th to 6th in Boston, gathered trailblazing minds in the worlds of sports science, mental health, and women’s health. Attendees, including researchers, athletes, and health professionals, dived into impactful discussions regarding the challenges female athletes face, particularly as they age. For those navigating the transitions of perimenopause and early menopause, the conference revealed invaluable insights that can advocate for the needs of women’s sports on multiple fronts. Statistics That Speak Volumes: A Call for Change One of the most striking points raised at the FAC was the woeful underrepresentation of female-focused research. Currently, only about 6% of studies in sports science focus exclusively on women, and when narrowing it down to optimizing performance, that number drops to a staggering 3%. This lack of attention contributes to a persistent gap in understanding the unique needs of women athletes, particularly those over 40. The establishment of the Women's Health, Sports & Performance Institute (WHSP) in Boston, backed by $50 million, aims to bridge this gap. The institute promises an interdisciplinary approach to research that prioritizes the health and performance of women in sports. The Importance of Mental Health in Female Sports Mental health issues permeated conversations throughout the conference. Surprisingly, 44% of female athletes expressed feeling overwhelmed, compared to just 17% of male athletes. This troubling trend underscores the urgent need for systemic changes to support mental well-being, which is often intertwined with challenges related to body image and societal pressures. Alarmingly, women athletes reported being 3 to 4 times more likely to feel their body image has been negatively influenced by social media. Moving Forward: Prioritizing Women’s Health The conference emphasized not only the need for quality research but also the importance of mental health strategies tailored for female athletes. The insights shared advocate for a holistic approach to health, recognizing that both mental and physical well-being are interlinked, particularly for women navigating tougher transitions like menopause. With the foundation laid by the FAC, the hope is that the future of female athletics becomes as inclusive and informed as it should be. As women athletes and advocates, staying informed and proactive about these findings will empower individuals to demand the resources and support necessary for health and performance. Together, we can foster a sports community that champions the needs of all female athletes.