What Karate Scotland’s menstrual-break policy changes for competition
8 September 2026
What Karate Scotland’s menstrual-break policy changes for competition
The Scottish Karate Governing Body (SKGB) has published a competition policy covering menstrual-related breaks. The policy applies within the SKGB’s competition framework and is not a rule for every karate organisation in the UK.
What the SKGB says
In a February 2026 news item, Karate Scotland said athletes, officials and coaches who menstruate may request a dedicated break. The organisation says the policy allows up to 10 minutes when menstrual blood becomes visible on a karate gi during or between bouts. It also says the policy came into force in November, although the news item does not specify the year in the headline text.
The policy distinguishes menstrual bleeding from an injury-related blood-stained uniform. Karate Scotland says the change is intended to give competitors more time to manage the situation safely and with dignity, rather than treating it as an ordinary injury stoppage.
Why the policy matters
The organisation links the change to research led by Dr Chloe Maclean, described as Karate Scotland’s Director of Women and Girls’ Interests and a lecturer at the University of the West of Scotland. The SKGB says the research identified concerns about leaking onto the karate suit and the effect those concerns can have on attendance and enjoyment.
For clubs and event organisers, the practical lesson is to make the process easy to understand before competition begins. Officials should know who can approve a request, where a competitor can change safely, how time is recorded and how privacy is protected.
What competitors should check
Athletes competing under the SKGB should read the current policy and event information rather than relying on a summary. Competitors attending events run by other organisations should check those organisers’ own rules, because policies can differ between federations, styles and competitions.
Sources
Karate Scotland’s menstrual-break policy news item
English Karate Federation news
Last checked: 8 September 2026.