Date of Award

12-2023

Document Type

Thesis

Abstract

Background: There are differences among injury rates between males and females in collegiate sports. Hormonal contraception is used in females as a way of balancing hormones. There is limited research on the effects of hormonal contraception on injury outcomes in females.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of hormonal contraceptives on injury in collegiate club and recreation sports.

Methods: A one-time survey was administered to all students enrolled in intramural sports at a mid-sized Southeastern Division I university. Questions were asked regarding injury history, menstrual cycle, and use of hormonal contraceptives.

Results: Analysis of survey respondents revealed that females reporting not to use hormonal contraception have approximately twice the risk of diagnosed injury compared to males (p=.0223). However, females who did not report hormonal contraceptive use do not have a significantly different risk of diagnosed injury compared to males (p=.7192).

Conclusion: The use of hormonal contraception acts as a moderator in the likelihood of injury in females, as females not taking HC have twice the risk of males of getting injured. Future research should examine the risk between different injury types and contraceptive use.

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