Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in June 2023.

Triathlete Emma Pallant-Browne is receiving praise and support after sharing a powerful photo from a recent race where she bled through her bodysuit while menstruating. The image showcases a small bloodstain on her pink and blue swimsuit, boldly challenging taboos surrounding menstruation in sports.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Pallant-Browne expressed gratitude for the overwhelming response she received from both men and women who lauded the image’s significance. She also discussed her decision to wear a swimsuit for the race, explaining that lighter colors were chosen for the cooling effect, as she tends to overheat during hot races, and her period elevates her body temperature.

The athlete courageously chose not to edit out the bloodstain, emphasizing that there is nothing wrong with the natural process of menstruation. She underscored the importance of breaking barriers in female sports.

Pallant-Browne recounted her experiences with her menstrual cycle during her childhood and expressed a newfound appreciation for it, describing it as “beautiful.” She encouraged others to embrace their own images depicting similar moments and cherish them as reminders of their strength on challenging days, as they may inspire and help others.

Her post received an outpouring of support, with fellow athletes and fans celebrating her message and resilience. Triathlete Skye Moench praised the representation of menstruation as a sign of female strength and functionality. Olympian Steph Twell applauded Pallant-Browne for her fearless authenticity.

Pallant-Browne’s response to a critical comment on a previous post on PTO’s Instagram further demonstrated her commitment to normalizing discussions about menstruation in sports. She candidly shared her own experiences, revealing that her period arrives sporadically and can be exceptionally heavy. She emphasized the importance of open conversations about the issue among female athletes who face similar challenges.

In sharing her story and photo, Pallant-Browne contributes to the ongoing dialogue about female athletes’ unique experiences and helps dispel the stigma surrounding menstruation in sports. Her bravery is inspiring many to embrace their bodies and celebrate their resilience.

Sources: Independent