A recent study conducted at University College London has shown that women’s cognitive abilities during menstruation are actually at their peak, challenging preconceived notions about women’s abilities at certain times of the month. The research included more than 240 female athletes and focused on brain abilities during menstruation, measuring mental and motor performance including reaction time and the ability to anticipate movement.
The data processing performance of women was found to be at its peak during menstruation, which may have an impact on sports performance in activities where precision is crucial. Despite this finding, female athletes reported feeling worse than usual when their period started, believing that mood negatively affected their sports performance. However, the study results suggest otherwise and highlight the need for further research into how hormonal changes affect brain function and performance in female athletes.
The study also noted that there were no significant differences in reaction times and accuracy between male and female athletes during the tests. This suggests that hormonal changes do not necessarily affect cognitive abilities in all individuals equally. The researchers are now looking into how hormone levels, including those affected by contraceptives, may influence professional athletes’ brain function.
Overall, the study challenges preconceived notions about women’s abilities during menstruation and sheds light on the importance of considering cognitive abilities in sports performance. It highlights the need for further research into how hormonal changes affect brain function and performance in female athletes to better understand how to optimize their athletic potential.
