Lead author Dr Silvia Giagio
The World Athletics Health & Science Department has published the first global study on pelvic floor health in elite youth athletes, in the prestigious peer-reviewed British Medical Journal Open Sports & Exercise Medicine.
In total, 325 athletes aged 19 or younger from 62 countries across all six continents voluntarily participated in a multilingual, anonymous survey during the 2024 World Athletics U20 Championships in Lima, Peru.
“With this project, we are taking a meaningful step towards recognising and addressing pelvic floor health, not just in the short term, but as a way to support athletes throughout their careers and beyond,” said Health & Science Department Director Dr Stephane Bermon. “This study is part of a wider World Athletics strategy.”
Key findings:
• 44% of athletes reported at least one symptom of pelvic floor dysfunction, including overactive bladder symptoms, urinary incontinence, pelvic pain or anal incontinence.
• 53% of females reported symptoms, compared to 29% of males.
• 13% of athletes experienced urinary incontinence, mainly during sprinting, jumping or changing direction.
• Only 30% were aware of pelvic floor health and 88% had never undergone any form of screening.
• 78% of symptomatic athletes had never disclosed their condition and 95% had not received specialist care.
“Pelvic floor dysfunctions are a real but often invisible burden in elite sport,” said lead author Dr Silvia Giagio. “For the first time, we have global data that sheds light on this issue in male and female youth athletes competing in elite athletics.”
A global perspective on an under-recognised health issue
While previous research has largely focused on adult female athletes and urinary incontinence, this study broadens the scope by including multiple pelvic floor conditions, both sexes, and a global sample of elite youth.
“We launched this study and initiative to generate robust data and inform evidence-based action across our global network, recognising diversity yet being united by a common goal: promoting athlete health,” added Scientific Manager Dr Frederic Garrandes.
In addition to data collection, the research team engaged directly with athletes, support staff and medical personnel throughout the event. The on-site presence of the research team enabled informal exchanges, creating opportunities to raise awareness, clarify questions, and foster open discussion on pelvic floor health, often for the first time.
“Our priority now is to translate these findings into actionable strategies for federations, clinicians and athletes, with the aim of driving meaningful change in the field,” said Head of Medical Operations Dr Paolo Emilio Adami.
Educational materials were also distributed on site, and further activities are being developed to enhance awareness and engagement across the athletics community.
Download the Pelvic Floor Health in Athletics leaflet.