The human body maintains more or less stable temperature through thermoregulation, which involves behavioural mechanisms such as seeking shade and changing clothes, and autonomic mechanisms such as sweating and blood flow regulation. During exercise, increased metabolic activity releases heat, which can lead to heat stress and consequently reduce physical performance. Physical activity therefore presents a challenge to the efficiency of thermoregulatory responses, which, among other factors, also depend on sex. Due to differences in physical characteristics and hormonal profiles, women may respond to heat stress differently than men. The menstrual cycle also plays a significant role, as fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels affect cardiovascular function, which can alter thermoregulatory responses. The aim of the present article was to review the literature on sex differences in thermoregulation, with a focus on the influence of the menstrual cycle. Understanding these differences is essential for reducing heat stress and optimizing individual performance across various phases of the cycle. Further research is needed to deepen our understanding of thermoregulation, focusing primarily on: systematic study of all phases of the menstrual cycle and the comparison of their effects on thermoregulation; as well as standardizing research protocols with more consistent control of inclusion criteria and confounding factors such as acclimatization, hydration and physical fitness, environmental conditions, and use or non-use of hormonal contraception.
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