Ankita Konwar, spouse of actor and model Milind Soman, has once again showcased her resilience by participating in the 2026 Ironman Wales. Despite sustaining injuries and experiencing menstrual discomfort during the race, she took to social media to share her experience. In her Instagram post, she cautioned others, stating, “Reminder – do not try this if you’re unsure. Finished another full Ironman with an injury and while on my period. And to think that Wales was just 6 days ago. Recovery time now. More on this later.”

Dr. Gaana Sreenivas, an obstetrician and gynecologist at Bone and Birth Clinic and Rainbow Hospital on Bannerghatta Road, noted that menstruation does not inherently require women to refrain from participating in endurance sports. The decision should be contingent upon the event’s intensity, the severity of any symptoms, the nature of injuries, and the individual’s fitness level.

For endurance competitions like the Ironman, Dr. Sreenivas emphasizes the significance of hydration, proper carbohydrate and iron intake, as well as recovery and injury management. “If there is an acute injury, particularly involving joints, muscles, or bones, competing should not be seen as a test of tolerance. Pain that alters movement patterns, leads to instability, results in significant swelling, or progressively worsens should prompt medical evaluation before competing,” she advised in an interview with indianexpress.com.

Dr. Sreenivas also highlighted the need to consider menstrual symptoms on a case-by-case basis. “Cramps, heavy bleeding, dizziness, nausea, headaches, or fatigue can all influence exercise performance. Women experiencing unusually heavy periods should be assessed for potential iron deficiency or anemia, especially if they engage in endurance sports,” she elaborated.

• Ensure proper hydration and electrolyte replenishment, particularly during extended endurance activities.
• Consume adequate food before and during the event, focusing on carbohydrate intake to sustain energy levels.
• Monitor iron intake closely, especially for women with heavy menstrual bleeding or a history of iron deficiency.
• Select menstrual products that have been tested during training instead of trying new options on race day.
• Consult a sports medicine professional or physiotherapist regarding any significant injuries before competing.
• Pay attention to bodily signals during the event. Symptoms such as severe dizziness, fainting, breathlessness, chest pain, extreme fatigue, or worsening pain should not be ignored.

• Do not presume that menstruation will automatically hinder performance or make exercise unsafe.
• Avoid pushing through significant pain caused by injuries simply due to the importance of the event.
• Do not impose strict food or fluid restrictions in an effort to manage weight ahead of an endurance event, as inadequate energy can impact menstrual health, bone density, recovery, and athletic performance.
• Refrain from routinely using pain relievers to mask symptoms and enable participation without understanding the potential risks, particularly during prolonged endurance events and dehydration. Consult with a doctor regarding medication when necessary.
• Avoid using race day as an opportunity to test new supplements, medications, hydration strategies, or menstrual products.

DISCLAIMER: This article draws upon information from public sources and expert opinions. Always seek advice from your healthcare and fitness professional before beginning any new regimen.