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Changes in the electro-encephalogram related to the menstrual cycle
Summary
Premenstrual phase brain activity (EEG) in women shows notable changes, including increased alpha frequency and amplitude. These electroencephalogram findings may explain mood shifts and are relevant for epilepsy research.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gynecology
- Psychiatry
Background:
- The menstrual cycle influences various physiological processes.
- Electroencephalograms (EEGs) measure brain electrical activity.
- Premenstrual symptoms and menstrual cycle-dependent epilepsy are recognized phenomena.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare electroencephalograms (EEGs) between the premenstrual and mid-cycle phases in healthy women.
- To investigate potential correlations between menstrual cycle phase and EEG characteristics.
- To inform clinical reporting practices regarding female subjects' EEGs.
Main Methods:
- Collected EEGs from 25 healthy young women during both premenstrual and mid-cycle phases.
- Visually compared EEG records from each subject across the two cycle phases.
- Analyzed specific EEG parameters including alpha frequency, alpha amplitude, theta activity, and response to hyperventilation.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in EEGs were observed in 20 out of 25 subjects.
- Eight premenstrual EEGs showed increased mean alpha frequency.
- Seventeen premenstrual EEGs exhibited increased mean alpha amplitude; theta activity and abnormal hyperventilation responses were also more common.
Conclusions:
- EEG patterns differ between the premenstrual and mid-cycle phases in healthy women.
- These EEG changes may be linked to premenstrual mood disturbances.
- Menstrual cycle phase should be considered when interpreting female subjects' EEGs, particularly in neurological and psychiatric contexts.