Survey study, 1972
How does the menstrual cycle affect mood and sexual arousal?
The menstrual cycle affects mood in women. The strongest effects occur before the period, when some women become depressed or irritable. Physical symptoms also accompany these mood changes.
What they did
The researchers studied how mood and sexual arousal change at different phases of the menstrual cycle in women.
What they found
Women show mood variations across the menstrual cycle with the most noticeable effects during the premenstrual period. Some women become depressed or irritable during this time. Women may also experience physical symptoms including headaches, backaches, nausea, and swelling. In some women these mood and physical changes are extreme enough that they are called premenstrual tension.
What it means for you
The menstrual cycle influences mood and behavior in women, with important effects before menstruation. Understanding these patterns is important because the mood changes and physical symptoms can significantly impact daily life. Women who experience extreme mood or physical changes deserve attention and support.
About the study
- Original title
- Effect of the menstrual cycle on mood and sexual arousability∗
- Authors
- Mary E. Luschen, David M. Pierce
- Journal
- The Journal of Sex Research
- Year
- 1972
- Study design
- Survey study
- Read the paper
- doi.org/10.1080/00224497209550729
Topics
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