---
title: How does the menstrual cycle affect thinking, mood, and sensation?
description: Hormones that change during the menstrual cycle directly affect thinking, mood, sensation, appetite, and other brain functions. Evidence shows PMS is a real b
url: https://niyora.com/research/papers/cognitive-sensory-and-emotional-changes-associated-with-the-menstrual-cycle-a-2008/
---

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- How does the menstrual cycle affect thinking, mood, and sensation?

Review, 2008

# How does the menstrual cycle affect thinking, mood, and sensation?

Hormones that change during the menstrual cycle directly affect thinking, mood, sensation, appetite, and other brain functions. Evidence shows PMS is a real biological condition, likely involving the immune system.

 Early or limited evidence

Women of childbearing age (review of research)

## What they did

This review examined research on how the hormones progesterone and estrogen affect brain function and psychological processes throughout the menstrual cycle. The reviewers looked at effects on thinking, mood, sensation, appetite, and other functions.

## What they found

The fluctuations of progesterone and estrogen during the menstrual cycle influence many brain and psychological functions including thinking, mood, sensation, and appetite. Recent evidence suggests PMS is primarily a condition with biological causes involving the immune system, not just a psychological problem.

## What it means for you

This confirms that PMS is a real biological condition caused by how hormones affect the brain and body, not just something psychological or emotional. This validates women's experiences. Because the condition involves multiple body systems, different treatments may work for different women.

## About the study

Original title Cognitive, sensory, and emotional changes associated with the menstrual cycle: a review Authors Farage MA, Osborn TW, MacLean AB Journal Archives of gynecology and obstetrics Year 2008 Study design Review What was tested None Read the paper [doi.org/10.1007/s00404-008-0708-2](https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-008-0708-2)

## Topics

[Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-pms/)[Menstrual cycle and mood](https://niyora.com/research/topics/condition-cycle-mood/)[Cognition, concentration and memory](https://niyora.com/research/topics/symptom-cognition/)

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