We're excited to share some groundbreaking developments in women's rugby that align perfectly with our mission at Boob Protect. The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) is making significant strides in addressing breast health and safety for female rugby players as reported today in The Irish Times
IRFU's Pioneering Research
Dr Caithríona Yeomans, IRFU Medical Manager for the Developmental Game, has led an investigation revealing that breast pain and injuries are often underreported among female rugby players. This crucial finding has prompted the IRFU to stress the importance of reporting such issues, marking a significant step in addressing the specific needs of female athletes in the sport.
Innovative Injury Surveillance
The Irish Rugby Injury Surveillance (IRIS) project has adapted its system to record female-specific injuries, including breast force impact injuries. This makes it the only long-term injury surveillance system internationally in the women's community game with this capability.
Spotlight on Emerging Research
Kilian Bibby, a doctoral researcher at the University of Limerick, is conducting vital research on "club injury surveillance and incidence of breast injuries in the women's game". This study is part of the IRIS project and highlights the growing focus on women's health in rugby.
Why This Matters
- Awareness and Education: These initiatives are fostering an environment where breast-related concerns are normalised and taken seriously.
- Injury Prevention: Understanding the prevalence of breast injuries can lead to better protective measures and training protocols.
- Performance Optimisation: Addressing breast force impact helps players focus on their game without unnecessary distractions.
Growing Female Participation
With more than 25% of the global rugby-playing population being female and nearly two million female players worldwide, these developments are more crucial than ever.
What's Next?
We are thrilled to see these advancements in female sports. We'll continue to work towards our mission of empowering female athletes and providing the protection they need to perform at their best.