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Menstrual cycle phase is a potential confound in psychophysiology research
B J Kaplan1, S F Whitsett, J W Robinson
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Psychophysiology
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Physiological responses in women vary across the menstrual cycle. For consistent research, physiological recording sessions are recommended during the follicular phase, avoiding luteal phase confounds.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Physiology
- Neuroendocrinology
- Psychophysiology
Background:
- The menstrual cycle significantly influences hormonal milieu and physiological parameters in women.
- Understanding these cyclical variations is crucial for accurate interpretation of physiological data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of menstrual cycle phase (follicular vs. luteal) on physiological levels and reactivity.
- To determine optimal timing for physiological data collection in women to minimize confounding variables.
Main Methods:
- Within-subject design with 20 women (aged 18-30 years) monitoring basal body temperature daily.
- Physiological recordings (heart rate, pulse transit time, EEG alpha) during task and rest periods in follicular and luteal phases.
- Counterbalanced order of phase presentation to mitigate order effects.
Main Results:
- Significant menstrual phase differences observed in heart rate, pulse transit time, and EEG alpha, particularly during task periods.
- No significant differences in physiological reactivity between phases were detected.
- Habituation effects in some participants masked luteal phase activation, complicating interpretation.
Conclusions:
- Menstrual cycle phase influences baseline physiological states, impacting data interpretation.
- The consistency of trends suggests physiological recording sessions with women may be most reliable during the follicular phase.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the impact of hormonal fluctuations on psychophysiological measures.