A qualitative study of breast protective equipment in women’s contact and combat sports

Methods: Qualitative data was collected using semi-structured interviews of 27 female athletes (mean age: 29 ± 6.4;) and 12 coaching and medical staff (female: n=4, 33%; male: n=8, 66%) involved in 10 different contact/combat sports (Roller derby, Australian football, Rugby Union, Fencing, Boxing, Jui jitsu, Mixed martial arts, Wrestling, Mauy Thai, and Taekwondo). Data was analysed using thematic analysis (qualitative) and descriptive statistics (participant characteristics, previous experience with breast injuries and BPE). [...]most athletes used trial and error to independently test various designs of BPE.