Examining How Different Menstrual Phases Affect Inhibitory Control | RISE Research

This study explores how the various phases of the menstrual cycle influence inhibitory control — a key aspect of executive functioning that enables individuals to suppress automatic responses and maintain focus. Using a Go/No-Go task to objectively measure reaction times alongside self-reported data on mood and perceived performance, the research integrates both psychological and physiological dimensions. The study aims to identify whether fluctuations in hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, across menstrual phases, correspond with measurable changes in cognitive performance.

Although the findings did not reveal statistically significant differences across menstrual phases, notable descriptive trends emerged. Reaction times were generally slower during the menstrual phase and faster during the ovulatory phase, suggesting subtle but meaningful cognitive shifts that may align with hormonal variations. Moreover, discrepancies between perceived and actual performance highlight the complex interaction between self-perception, mood, and neurobiological processes.

By combining behavioral data with subjective responses, this research contributes to growing evidence that cognitive control is not static but responsive to cyclical biological changes. It underscores the importance of considering menstrual phases in cognitive and psychological assessments, advocating for larger, more balanced studies to better understand how hormonal cycles affect attention, decision-making, and inhibitory functioning. The implications extend to women’s health, education, and workplace well-being — encouraging environments that account for natural cognitive variability across the menstrual cycle.