When it comes to concussions, football often comes into mind due to its common occurrences. However, recent research has indicated that these brain injuries also occur frequently in other sports, especially those involving women. In fact, certain evidences suggest that females may be more susceptible to concussion-related complications such as prolonged recovery periods and severe symptoms.

In the past few years, elevated rates of concussions among females have been recorded in various studies. One research involving over 80,000 US high school students discovered that female soccer players had double the likelihood of getting a concussion compared to their male counterparts. Another investigation found that the risk of concussion for girls playing soccer was almost on par with boys playing football.

Even outside the realm of sports, other causes of traumatic brain injuries are present including falls, motor vehicle accidents and physical assaults. Angela Colantonio, PhD, director of the Rehabilitation Sciences Institute at the University of Toronto, points out that there may be numerous unreported brain injuries among women. One notable example is instances involving intimate partner violence.

According to a study that Colantonio and her peers conducted, women reported more post-concussion symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and the lack of motivation and supervision compared to men. However, male respondents reported heightened noise sensitivity, sleep disturbances and difficulties setting meaningful targets.

Consequently, scientists are delving into the reasons behind the gender differences seen in concussions. Some controversial theories suggest that social gender differences may be a contributing factor as females might be more likely to report symptoms of a concussion than males. However, other findings hint at a biological explanation such as the fluctuations in estrogen levels in females during their menstrual cycle.

Studies suggest that women who experience a blunt force to the head during peak progesterone levels exhibit worse post-concussion symptoms. These symptoms may be attributed to a withdrawal effect due to a sudden drop in progesterone levels. Other contributing factors could include anatomical differences such as neck-strength-to-head-size ratios.

However, Colantonio cautioned that most of these investigations are predominantly based on athletes. This means further research is needed to better understand how concussions affect the general population, particularly individuals that do not participate in sports.

Currently, women-specific concussion guidance and protocols are lacking. As a result, some females may start doubting their own experiences when their recovery process and symptoms do not mirror those of males. Therefore, Colantonio emphasises that it is crucial for parents, medical professionals, coaches, and school staff to pay heed to the symptoms reported by females after a brain injury.