Menstrual cycle effects on a VDT-based simulation task: cognitive indices and subjective ratings

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Psychology
• Human Physiology

Background:

• The influence of the menstrual cycle on cognitive functions and task performance remains incompletely understood.
• Previous research suggests potential premenstrual tension syndrome (PMST) during the premenstrual phase and coping strategies during menstruation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of the menstrual cycle on VDT-based task performance.
• To assess cognitive indices using signal-detection theory across different menstrual phases.
• To evaluate subjective ratings related to performance and well-being.

Main Methods:

• Participants completed assessments during three distinct menstrual phases: premenstrual, menstrual, and postmenstrual.
• Task performance was evaluated using VDT-based tasks.
• Cognitive performance was measured using signal-detection theory indices.
• Subjective experiences were recorded via questionnaires.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant effects of the menstrual cycle were observed on task performance.
• Cognitive indices derived from signal-detection theory showed no significant variations across the menstrual phases.
• Subjective ratings did not demonstrate significant changes related to the menstrual cycle phases.

Conclusions:

• The information processing involved in VDT-based tasks is not demonstrably affected by the menstrual cycle.
• Cognitive functions and subjective experiences related to task performance appear to be stable throughout the menstrual cycle phases studied.