Menstrual Cycle Modulates Motor Learning and Memory Consolidation in Humans

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Motor Control
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Menstrual phase influences cognitive functions like declarative memory.
• Impact of menstrual cycle phases on motor learning (ML) and procedural memory remains unclear.
• Understanding these effects is crucial for optimizing skill acquisition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if motor learning differs across menstrual cycle phases.
• To assess initial learning, overlearning, consolidation, and final performance.
• To explore neurophysiological and psychological correlates of menstrual phase effects on motor learning.

Main Methods:

• Assessed motor learning, overlearning, and consolidation in women during follicular, preovulation, and luteal phases.
• Measured primary motor cortex (M1) oscillations neuro-physiologically.
• Administered psychological assessments for premenstrual syndrome and interoceptive awareness.

Main Results:

• Poorer performance gain during initial ML and lower final performance in the luteal phase compared to the ovulation phase.
• Behavioral differences linked to premenstrual syndrome symptoms and altered M1 excitability in the luteal phase.
• No significant differences in early and late consolidation across menstrual cycle phases.

Conclusions:

• Motor learning performance varies across the menstrual cycle, with deficits observed in the luteal phase.
• Premenstrual syndrome symptoms may underlie impaired motor learning and M1 excitability.
• Consolidation of sensorimotor skills is not affected by menstrual phase, suggesting optimal timing for learning new skills.