Changes in saccadic latencies over the human menstrual cycle.
The study assessed differences in sensorimotor processing as reflected in measurements of saccadic latencies at 3 different stages in the menstrual cycle (menstruation, early luteal, and premenstruation) in naturally cycling women (n = 13), and at the same time intervals in women taking an oral contraceptive (n = 6), and male controls (n = 8). Subjects (M age = 22.0 yr., SD = 2.2 yr.) were recruited by questionnaire from the student population of the University of Cambridge. Latencies were measured using a portable infrared scleral oculometer. Changes in latency across the menstrual cycle occurred only in the naturally cycling women (F(2.11) = 5.95, p < .05). Premenstrual latencies were greater (199.3 +/- 12.7 msec., M +/- SD) compared to those during menstruation (191.9 +/- 11.1 msec.) or midcycle (196.9 +/- 12.7 msec.). These findings could account for the loss of musculoskeletal coordination reported by some women prior to menstruation and suggests that administration of an oral contraceptive may alleviate this effect.
Brooker
Emma J
EJ
Department of Physiology, University of Cambridge, UK. eb219@cam.ac.uk
Barnes
Richard J
RJ
Walton
Emily K
EK
Wickramasinghe
Ayanthi H
AH
D000328:Adult; D001259:Ataxia; D003278:Contraceptives, Oral, Hormonal / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008597:Menstrual Cycle / Q000502:physiology*; D012438:Saccades / Q000187:drug effects*; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013997:Time Factors
D003278:Contraceptives, Oral, Hormonal