How menstrual phases affect women's response to chronic sleep loss

Menstrual-phase-dependent differences in response to chronic variable sleep loss

NIH-funded research Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11078196

This study looks at how different times in your menstrual cycle might affect your thinking and focus when you're not getting enough sleep, helping us understand the unique challenges women face with sleep and performance.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11078196 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how different phases of the menstrual cycle influence women's cognitive performance when they experience chronic sleep loss. It examines the neurobehavioral effects of sleep deprivation, particularly focusing on the differences between the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle. By analyzing how sex hormones like progesterone and estradiol affect core body temperature and cognitive function, the study aims to provide insights into the unique challenges women face regarding sleep and performance. Participants will undergo assessments to evaluate their cognitive abilities under varying sleep conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women aged 12-20 who experience chronic sleep loss and have regular menstrual cycles.

Not a fit: Patients who are not within the age range of 12-20 or those who do not have regular menstrual cycles may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to tailored sleep recommendations and interventions for women, improving their cognitive performance and overall health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that sleep loss significantly impacts cognitive performance, but this study aims to explore a novel angle by focusing on menstrual cycle phases, making it a unique investigation.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.