Women's Health in Rugby: It Is More Than Orthopedics

TL;DR

This paper highlights the need for a broader approach to women's health in rugby beyond just orthopedic injuries.

Contribution

The paper emphasizes the importance of gender-specific injury surveillance and research in women's rugby.

Findings

Female rugby players face unique health issues beyond orthopedic injuries.

Research should include breast injuries and pelvic floor dysfunction.

Gender-specific findings need to be integrated into practice for safer play.

Abstract

Rugby is a globally expanding sport for women, yet research on female-specific health and safety issues remains limited. While orthopedic injuries are the most common and are a concern, the differences in physiology, anatomy, and social context between men and women call for a broader and more gender-informed approach to player health, safety, and welfare. There is a need for gender-specific injury surveillance, which includes not only orthopedic injuries, but also breast injuries, pelvic floor dysfunction, and postpartum effects that impair playing. Strengthening research funding and integrating sex-specific findings into practice are essential to ensure safe, equitable participation and optimal performance for women rugby players.