Hormonal Birth Control Might Reduce Female Athletes’ ACL Tears

Female athletes are two to eight times more likely to tear their anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) than their male counterparts performing the same sport at the same level. They are also at greater risk for other ligament and tendon injuries, such as ankle sprains.

March 4, 2025
6 min

Cedars-Sinai Pulse

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Female athletes are at a higher risk of ACL tears compared to males, with a risk increase noted after age 14.
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Hormonal birth control may reduce the risk of ACL injuries in female athletes by keeping relaxin levels low.
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A study found that female athletes using hormonal birth control exhibited safer landing mechanics, reducing injury risk.
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The research highlights the need for more studies on female athletes, as most sports-related research focuses on males.
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In addition to hormonal benefits, training programs to strengthen stabilizing muscles can help reduce ACL injury risk.

Hormonal Birth Control Might Reduce Female Athletes’ ACL Tears

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Original Source(s)

Hormonal Birth Control Might Reduce Female Athletes’ ACL Tears

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