Women experiance a slight dip in reaction time during their menstrual cycle, but physical activity has a more considerable impact, according to research published October 9, 2025. Teh findings challenge assumptions about hormonal fluctuations considerably impairing cognitive performance and offer nuanced insights for athletes, professions requiring swift reflexes, and everyday life.
The study, released this week, reveals that while there is a measurable difference in reaction speed linked to the menstrual cycle, the effect is comparatively small. Being physically active demonstrably alters reaction time to a greater degree. This facts is particularly relevant for approximately half the global population who experience menstruation, and for industries where split-second decisions are critical-from emergency response to competitive sports-potentially informing training regimens and performance expectations. Further research will explore the interplay between hormonal phases, exercise intensity, and specific cognitive tasks.
Researchers found that reaction times were modestly slower during certain phases of the menstrual cycle. however, the influence of physical exertion consistently produced a more pronounced effect, irrespective of the menstrual phase. The study underscores the importance of considering multiple factors influencing cognitive function, moving beyond a sole focus on hormonal changes.
