Olympic swimmer Mei Hong has captured the attention of fans worldwide with her vibrant personality and candidness during the Rio games. However, it was her honest remarks about her period that truly resonated, making her a relatable figure for women everywhere. In that moment, she embodied the experience of countless women who endure cramps, bloating, and fatigue as they navigate their monthly cycle, often referred to as “the curse.”
While waiting for an interview with reporters after her performance in the 4×100-meter relay, the 20-year-old athlete was visibly uncomfortable, hunched over in pain. When asked if her stomach was bothering her, Mei candidly shared, “My period came last night and I’m really tired right now.”
Let’s be real—periods are the worst. They can ruin your favorite pair of leggings and leave you feeling like a zombie, even when you’re working from home in your comfiest pajamas, indulging in chocolate. The idea of competing at a global level while dealing with the discomfort of your period is almost unfathomable.
But true to her resilient spirit, Mei refused to use her menstrual discomfort as an excuse for her performance. Although her team narrowly missed out on a medal, finishing fourth with a time of 3 minutes 55.18 seconds—just 0.17 seconds behind Denmark—she maintained her professionalism, stating, “But this isn’t an excuse, I still did not swim as well as I should have.” A true class act.
We can all relate to those days when our period throws us off our game. Whether it’s failing to respond to an important email or simply dragging ourselves through the day, many of us feel like we could have done better if not for the monthly inconvenience. Mei’s openness about her struggles during the games is refreshing, especially in a world where female athletes often shy away from discussing the unique challenges they face, such as managing their cycles while competing.
Although she is known for her cheerful demeanor and iconic expressions, Mei’s candid acknowledgment of her period while competing serves as a powerful reminder of the realities women encounter in sports. This honest dialogue not only normalizes the conversation around menstruation but also empowers women in athletics to speak up about their experiences.
If you’re interested in reading more about women’s health and fertility topics, check out this post on our blog. And for those considering home insemination, visit this excellent resource for guidance. If you’re looking for a reliable supplier of at-home insemination kits, Make a Mom offers a great selection of syringe kits.
In summary, Mei Hong’s relatable struggles during the Rio Olympics highlight the importance of open discussions about periods in sports, inspiring women everywhere to embrace their realities with strength and humor.
Leave a Reply