The Effect of the Menstrual Cycle on Cognitive Performance: Spatial Reasoning, Visual & Numerical Memory

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 < 0.001) with the luteal phase. However, since the effect sizes were very small, the importance of this relationship might be commonly overestimated. Future studies could thus entail designs with largersample sizes, including neuro-biological measures of menstrual stages, and consequently inform competent interventions and support systems.