Postexercise executive function and cortical hemodynamics during the different phases of the menstrual cycle
Abstract
Resting cerebral blood flow (CBF) is increased during the luteal (LUT) phase of the menstrual cycle; however, it is unclear whether this change impacts a postexercise executive function (EF) benefit. Female participants (N=16) performed three experimental sessions: a V̇O2peak task and 20-min single bouts of moderate intensity aerobic exercise (i.e., 80% of lactate threshold) during their follicular (FOL) and luteal (LUT) menstrual cycle phases. A separate group of male participants (N=21) additionally completed a V̇O2peak test and a 20-min exercise intervention. Middle cerebral artery velocity (MCAv) was measured during exercise via transcranial Doppler ultrasound to estimate CBF and EF was assessed prior to and immediately after exercise. The MCAv response to exercise and postexercise EF benefit did not vary between FOL and LUT phases or between female and male participants. The present study demonstrates that menstrual cycle status should not limit inclusion of female participants in exercise neuroscience research.