TITLE:
The Effect of the Menstrual Cycle on Cognitive Performance: Spatial Reasoning, Visual & Numerical Memory
AUTHORS:
Anusha Asim, Rifah Maryam, Zahra Sultan, Areej Shahid, Fatima Yousaf, Ishika Khandelwal, Isra Allana
KEYWORDS:
Menstrual Health, Menstrual Cycle, Menstruation, Mental Health, Cognition, Spatial Reasoning, Visual Memory, Numerical Memory
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Behavioral and Brain Science,
Vol.14 No.10,
October
31,
2024
ABSTRACT: The menstrual cycle has been a topic of interest in relation to behavior and cognition for many years, with historical beliefs associating it with cognitive impairment. However, recent research has challenged these beliefs and suggested potential positive effects of the menstrual cycle on cognitive performance. Despite these emerging findings, there is still a lack of consensus regarding the impact of the menstrual cycle on cognition, particularly in domains such as spatial reasoning, visual memory, and numerical memory. Hence, this study aimed to explore the relationship between the menstrual cycle and cognitive performance in these specific domains. Previous studies have reported mixed findings, with some suggesting no significant association and others indicating potential differences across the menstrual cycle. To contribute to this body of knowledge, we explored the research question of whether the menstrual cycles have a significant effect on cognition, particularly in the domains of spatial reasoning, visual and numerical memory in a regionally diverse sample of menstruating females. A total of 30 menstruating females from mixed geographical backgrounds participated in the study, and a repeated measures design was used to assess their cognitive performance in two phases of the menstrual cycle: follicular and luteal. The results of the study revealed that while spatial reasoning was not significantly related to the menstrual cycle (p = 0.256), both visual and numerical memory had significant positive associations (p