A study published in Neuropsychologia challenges beliefs about women's cognitive abilities during menstruation.

The research, conducted by UCL Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, shows women perform better on psychological tests during their period.

Women reacted 12% quicker and made 25% fewer errors during menstruation.

The study focused on soccer players and noted better performance during menstruation and worse during the luteal phase.

Injury risk was elevated during the luteal phase.

Women reported feeling clumsy before ovulation, a finding supported by the study.

Despite feeling unwell during menstruation, players performed better during this time.

Hormonal fluctuations were emphasized, with increased oestrogen during menstruation potentially boosting brain function and progesterone inhibiting it.

The findings could impact injury prevention and health strategies in sports, prompting conversations between coaches and athletes.

The study challenges assumptions about women's abilities during different menstrual cycle phases and underscores the importance of understanding cognitive fluctuations.