RECOGNISE → LISTEN → SUPPORT → ADJUST → SIGNPOST
Recognise without diagnosing
If an athlete says menopause symptoms are affecting her sport, take that information seriously. Do not decide that unrelated performance changes must be hormonal, and do not try to diagnose menopause yourself.
Listen privately
Ask: “Is there anything that would help today?” Avoid intrusive questions about bleeding, sex, medication or treatment unless there is a clear professional reason within your role.
Adjust the environment before judging the athlete
- Water and reasonable breaks.
- Ventilation/cooler area where practical.
- Clothing flexibility and layers.
- Seating during long waits.
- Clear schedules and reminders.
- Privacy for support conversations.
Keep sporting expectations individual
Do not assume an older or menopausal woman wants social-only sport, easier coaching or reduced competition. Ask about her goals and coach the actual performance in front of you.
Medical boundary
Do not recommend an HRT type, menopause medication or supplement. Do not advise stopping medicine. Do not interpret hormone tests. Signpost health questions to an appropriate healthcare professional.
Avoid
- “It’s your hormones.”
- “Women your age slow down.”
- “You’ll probably forget.”
- “You should take HRT/herbal product X.”
SUPPORT THE WOMAN. DON’T DEFINE HER BY MENOPAUSE.