Getting accurate data on hormone levels, without the need for blood samples, is now both available and convenient using Hormonix. The new platform from UK-based company Mint Diagnostics has particular potential in supporting female health and athletic programs.
Hormonix utilises a saliva sampling technique, which allows female athletes to monitor menstrual cycle hormones frequently and conveniently.
‘Unlike blood sampling, this allows for more reliable data, better interpretation and more impactful interventions.
‘Saliva sampling can be done at home and uses a simple app to both capture and view data, including symptoms, hormone levels and cycle regularity. The approach can be adapted for individuals, coaches, teams or medical professionals.’
A recent survey of top US sports college systems found that only 3% of coaches were implementing female specific training design. Yet, 46% were aware of the female specific factors that might be important and impactful on athlete wellbeing.
The menstrual cycle is considered the fifth vital sign by the American Academy of Pediatrics, as it reflects overall body health. The British Journal of Sports Medicine also states that an unhealthy cycle, with low levels of cycle hormones, can increase the risk of injury by up to 59%, and can impair adaptation to training and compromise endurance performance.
Studies have also shown that up to 50% of female athletes have hormonal deficits, irregular or absent periods. This can often be the consequence of low energy availability, where nutrition intake does not meet the energy demands of training and recovery.
RED-S (relative energy deficiency in sport) can be one potential impact on an athlete. The Hormonix team notes that… ‘Screening for menstrual cycle health, using subjective reporting of symptom severity, alongside hormone monitoring as a marker of cycle function, is a vital part of the female athlete welfare package.’
Hormonix screening is integrated into the overall support of female athlete health. Initially, athletes screen for one to three cycles to understand their current status.
In the context of symptom data, training and fuelling information, this screening can help athletes understand and optimise their experience of their menstrual cycle.
For athletes whose data indicates the need for further support, more frequent or regular hormonal cycle monitoring could be provided. This approach allows athletes and coaches to make interventions as necessary, tailored to the individual’s needs and physiology.
Hormonix won the UK Sport Innovation Award in 2020. The saliva monitoring platform is currently available as a proprietary laboratory testing system. Home samples are securely stored and analysed in a lab. However, a dedicated point of care device, where testing can take place remotely, is planned to become available shortly.
The product is a patented system developed by Mint Diagnostics in conjunction with the English Institute of Sport (EIS), an affiliated body of the British Olympic Association (BOA).
