Examining how Different Menstrual Phases Affect Inhibitory Control

This study investigated how the different menstrual phases may influence inhibitory control, with a specific focus on performance in a Go/No-Go task. By combining self-reported measures of mood and perceived performance, with objective reaction time data, the research underscored the complex interaction between psychological states and biological cycles. The paper has emphasised on inhibitory control as a vital and sensitive part of executive functioning that may fluctuate with hormonal changes across the menstrual cycle. Although no statistically significant effects were found, the descriptive trends demonstrated slower reaction times during the menstrual phase and faster reaction times during the ovulatory phase. This was observed with a discrepancy between perceived and actual performance.