Attentional validity effect across the human menstrual cycle varies with basal temperature changes

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Psychology
• Reproductive Endocrinology

Background:

• Estrogen is known to benefit working memory.
• Menstrual cycle phases involve hormonal fluctuations.
• Previous research suggests potential cognitive changes across the cycle.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between covert attention and basal body temperature (BBT) changes.
• To determine if attentional function is enhanced during the ovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle.
• To explore the correlation between menstrual cycle phase and visuospatial attentional performance.

Main Methods:

• Recruited 22 adult females.
• Determined menstrual phase using questionnaires and basal body temperature (BBT) monitoring.
• Assessed visuospatial attentional performance using the cued target detection (CTD) task at three cycle points.
• Measured reaction times (RTs) based on cue type, target location, and menstrual phase.

Main Results:

• Decreased reaction times (RTs) were observed around the time of ovulation.
• A significant increase in the cue validity effect was noted preceding and following ovulation.
• The attention validity effect magnitude was negatively correlated with basal temperature rise.
• Individuals without significant BBT shifts did not exhibit these attentional changes.

Conclusions:

• Natural fluctuations in body temperature during the menstrual cycle may enhance cognitive performance.
• Hormonal changes, particularly around ovulation, appear to positively influence attentional processes.
• Basal body temperature shifts serve as a potential indicator of enhanced cognitive function.