A recent study conducted by business analysts from the University of Melbourne, Nanyang Technological University, and Olin Business School has debunked the long-standing belief that women experience cognitive impairments during their menstrual cycle.
The study, led by Daisung Jang, Jack Zhang, and Hillary Anger Elfenbein, published in PLOS ONE, is based on a meta-analysis of over 100 previous studies exploring the potential link between menstrual cycles and cognitive performance in women.
For years, myths and unfounded speculation about the impact of menstruation on a woman’s mental state have flourished, with many suggesting that cognitive abilities decline during menstruation. Although some research has attempted to validate these beliefs, findings have remained inconclusive. This new analysis aims to provide clarity.
The team examined 102 studies involving 3,943 women who took cognitive tests at various stages of their menstrual cycles. The analysis revealed complications due to small sample sizes, self-reporting biases, and varying definitions of menstrual cycle phases. Despite these challenges, the researchers found no evidence that cognitive abilities were affected by the menstrual cycle at any stage.
The study’s findings challenge the prevalent misconceptions surrounding menstruation and mental acuity, offering scientific reassurance that women’s cognitive performance remains stable throughout their cycle. This research may serve to alleviate the pressure women often face to prove their capabilities in the face of these enduring myths.
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