Heather Fisher, part of England’s World Cup-winning side in 2014, says she will take a break from the game to “mentally recharge”.
The 34-year-old made her international debut in 2009 and helped England win rugby sevens bronze at the Commonwealth Games in April.
Fisher, who has 22 England caps, said she had put “a huge amount of pressure on myself” during her playing career.
“My head isn’t where it needs to be for the start of the season,” she wrote.
“By taking some time out I am hopeful that if an opportunity arises to represent my country again, I will come back much stronger and ready to go.”