A influência do ciclo menstrual no desempenho neuromuscular, estado de humor e percepção subjetiva de esforço em jogadoras de voleibol

Abstract

The menstrual cycle (MC) is a physiological process characterized by hormonal fluctuations that may influence variables related to women's physical performance. In team sports such as volleyball, which require high levels of muscular strength and power, neuromuscular performance is essential for athletic performance. However, evidence regarding the influence of the MC on intermittent sports remains limited and inconclusive. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the influence of different menstrual cycle phases on neuromuscular performance, mood state, and rating of perceived exertion (RPE) in female volleyball players. A cross-sectional observational study with repeated measures was conducted during three menstrual cycle phases: early follicular (EFF), ovulatory (OV), and mid-luteal (MLP). Eighteen female volleyball players participated (24.5 years [95% CI: 22.95–28.61]; height: 1.67 m [95% CI: 1.63–1.70]; body mass: 72.53 kg), classified as Level 2 – Trained/Developing. Sports experience was distributed as follows: 11.1% (1–2 years), 16.7% (2–5 years), 33.3% (5–10 years), and 38.9% (>10 years). Menstrual cycle phases were determined using a combined method, including menstrual calendar tracking, urinary ovulation testing, and serum progesterone assessment. Neuromuscular performance was evaluated using the Countermovement Jump (CMJ), Squat Jump (SJ), 30-second Continuous Jump test (CJ30), and isometric and isokinetic dynamometry at 120°/s. RPE was assessed using the Borg CR-10 Scale, and mood state was evaluated using the Brunel Mood Scale (BRUMS). Data were analyzed using Linear Mixed Models, with menstrual cycle phase as a fixed effect and participants as a random effect, complemented by the Estimation Statistics approach to estimate effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals. The fatigue index (FI) during the CJ30 was 5.02% lower in the MLP compared to the EFF (p = 0.040), indicating a greater ability to maintain neuromuscular performance during this phase — a finding with potential practical relevance for volleyball, a sport characterized by long rallies, extended matches, and physically demanding training sessions, in which fatigue resistance is a critical component of performance. No significant difference was observed between EFF and OV (p = 0.327). No significant differences were observed for the remaining neuromuscular outcomes, mood state, or RPE across menstrual cycle phases, with considerable interindividual variability. These findings suggest that, although most of the variables investigated were not significantly affected by menstrual cycle phase, the greater susceptibility to fatigue observed in the EFF suggests that coaches and multidisciplinary teams should pay closer attention to this effect, particularly in high physical demand contexts. The results reinforce that athletic performance results from the interaction of multiple physiological and environmental factors, highlighting the importance of individualized approaches to training monitoring and prescription throughout the menstrual cycle.