A range of new educational resources focusing on female health are being developed by Swim England.

The resources are being produced to support females at all levels and ages to continue to enjoy the water. The team are also looking for examples of great work already taking place in local clubs and organisations.

Some of the initial topics that will be covered will include:

• The menstrual cycle
• Female nutrition
• Pelvic floor
• Contraception
• Menopause

The work is being led by Swim England's sports science and medicine manager, Diane Elliot, who has been working with relevant practitioners and experts on each resource.

• Craig Robertson, Swim England sports scientist, has helped to produce the information around the menstrual cycle while Josh Dyson, Swim England performance nutritionist, has provided specific female nutrition information.
• Physiotherapist for Swim England, Lisa Sharratt, has worked on the pelvic floor resource while the subject of menopause has been covered by specialist, Lucy Thompson.
• For the topic of contraception, the national governing body has collaborated with sport and exercise medicine consultant and the chief medical officer for Aquatics GB, Dr Kate Jordan.

A range of further topics will be covered going forward and will all be available in the new female health section on the Swim England website.

Important resources

Speaking on the work Elliot said:

"Swim England is committed to ensuring everyone feels comfortable getting in the water and we are creating these resources to help these efforts.

"Some of these topics can be sensitive areas and can often stop women from taking part in aquatics or any kind of physical activity, which shouldn't be the case.

"No one should feel as though they cannot get into the water so it's important that these resources are developed and are available so that people can get the support they need.

"We hope that pulling together this information will equip athletes both competitive and recreational with the knowledge and tools they need to continue their aquatics journey."

The first of our female health resources on the menstrual cycle will be launched this month.

The female health athlete group are also looking at stories of best practice across the country to highlight some great work that is already being done by clubs and individuals to create a great place for women and girls to participate in our sports. To share your story please contact: Diane Elliot diane.elliot@swimming.org

Source: Information: Swim England. Image: Sport England, This Girl Can.