NERVOUS SYSTEM INTEGRITY IN MENSTRUAL CYCLE PHASES
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The menstrual cycle exerts dynamic effects on female physiology, extending beyond reproduction to influence nervous system integrity. This study explored the impact of hormonal fluctuations across menstrual, follicular, ovulatory, and luteal phases on sensory and systemic functions. Fifty female participants aged 18–30 were assessed using vibration sensitivity, pressure response, tactile sensation, blood pressure, glucose, and body mass index as indicators of neural and physiological performance. Findings revealed significant phase-dependent variations: estrogen-dominant phases (follicular and ovulatory) enhanced sensory discrimination, neuromuscular responsiveness, and cardiovascular regulation, while progesterone-dominant luteal phases were linked with reduced tactile accuracy, slower reaction, and increased fatigue. Correlation analyses showed strong associations between sensory and systemic parameters, underscoring the integrative role of sex hormones in neurophysiology. The study concludes that nervous system function in females is not static but cyclically modulated by endogenous hormones. These results highlight the importance of incorporating menstrual cycle tracking in neuroscience research and clinical practice to improve diagnostic and therapeutic outcomes.
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