The menstrual cycle is quite natural in the life of a woman. However, it is accompanied by several physical and emotional changes that may influence many different variables in a woman’s life. Most clearly, everybody knows that the common symptoms of PMS include things like mood swings and cramps, although there are plenty of other lesser-known ways in which the menstrual cycle can influence a woman. This paper will highlight and discuss five weird things females’ menstrual cycles can affect.
1. Sense of Smell
A study published in the journal Hormones and Behavior discovered that women experienced heightened sensitivity to odors during ovulation, a phase characterized by a surge of estrogen. This hormonal shift causes an increase in the production of olfactory receptors in the nose, leading to a heightened sense of smell. As a result, women may become more sensitive to certain scents, which can manifest as aversions or cravings during different phases of their cycle (Derntl, et al., 2013).
These findings offer a compelling explanation for the widely reported phenomenon of changes in appetite and food preferences during the menstrual cycle. For example, some women find themselves increasingly drawn to the smell of certain foods, like coffee or chocolate, during specific phases of their cycle. Conversely, others may experience a heightened aversion to particular smells, such as those associated with cigarette smoke or strong perfumes.
2. Taste Preferences
The same study also examined women’s taste preferences during various stages of their menstrual cycle. The results indicated that during the ovulation phase, women tended to prefer sweeter and more energy-dense foods. This preference is thought to be an evolutionary adaptation that increases the likelihood of conception during this fertile period (Derntl, et al., 2013). In contrast, during the premenstrual phase, women gravitated towards savory and salty flavors, which could be attributed to the body’s heightened need for essential minerals and electrolytes during this time.
These findings carry significant implications for women’s overall health and well-being. By understanding how the menstrual cycle influences taste preferences, women can make more informed decisions about their dietary choices and better manage their nutritional needs throughout the month. For example, women might opt for healthier sweet snacks, like fresh fruit or yogurt, during the ovulation phase, while favoring nutrient-rich soups and vegetables during the premenstrual phase.
3. Athletic Performance
The menstrual cycle, often perceived as an obstacle for women in sports, can actually present an opportunity for optimization when understood and accounted for. During the first half of the menstrual cycle, characterized by rising estrogen levels, women may experience enhanced energy and endurance, making it an ideal phase for high-intensity workouts and personal bests.
This estrogen-driven boost in performance can be attributed to an increase in red blood cell count, resulting in improved oxygen transportation and utilization in the muscles. Moreover, enhanced muscle function and flexibility have been observed during this phase, allowing for smooth, injury-free workouts.
However, during the premenstrual phase, as estrogen levels plummet and progesterone takes center stage, women may notice a decline in physical performance. Progesterone’s diuretic effect can lead to dehydration, impairing physical endurance. Furthermore, altered neurotransmitter activity and inflammation may account for the heightened perception of pain and fatigue, adversely affecting athletic performance.
Additionally, women may experience increased susceptibility to injuries during this phase owing to a decline in reaction times, agility, and exercises requiring dynamic stability. Factoring in these nuances can aid sports professionals and female athletes in planning and strategizing training, competition schedules, and recovery methods for optimal results.
4. Skin Changes
Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can also affect the skin in various ways. Many women experience acne flare-ups during their period due to the rise in testosterone. This can lead to an increase in oil production, clogged pores, and breakouts. On the other hand, during the ovulation phase, the rise in estrogen can give women a natural glow and improve the appearance of their skin. Women may also experience changes in skin texture and dryness during different phases of their cycle due to hormonal changes.
5. Sleep Patterns
The hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can also have an impact on a woman’s sleep patterns. During the premenstrual phase, when estrogen and progesterone levels are high, women may experience difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. This is due to the effect of these hormones on the body’s temperature regulation, making it harder to reach a restful state. On the other hand, during the menstrual phase, when hormone levels drop, women may experience better sleep. This fluctuation in hormones can also lead to changes in sleep quality throughout the cycle.
That means that it is not only the female reproductive system that can be affected, but it can also change a woman’s sense of smell, her food preferences, sporting performance, skin, sleep—the list may go on. Inherent in these changes to a woman in her cycle are variations that may differ from one female to another. Knowing about them can enable women to better manage their symptoms and live larger, healthier, and more balanced lives.
