Dorothea Wierer, the 35-year-old Italian biathlete, has openly discussed the impact of her menstrual cycle on her athletic performance, highlighting that not everyone understands the difficulties that can come with it. She mentioned that at times, she receives criticism for her performance without others knowing the personal challenges she may be facing due to her menstruation. Wierer explained that her experiences vary each month, with some periods being more physically taxing than others, stressing the unique challenges faced by women athletes.

Wierer shared that her menstrual cycle coincided with the opening distance event at the Olympics, affecting her performance. She ended up finishing in fifth place during the normal distance race and noted that the physical discomfort was significant for her at that time. Despite these challenges, she expressed determination, indicating that she knows her performance would improve in the days following her period, showcasing her resilience and dedication to the sport.

Additionally, Wierer emphasized the importance of discussing menstruation, considering it a natural topic that should be normalized in conversations about women's health in sports. By sharing her experiences, she hopes to raise awareness and empathy towards female athletes and the unique hurdles they face, advocating for more understanding and support from the sports community.