Why menstrual cycle irregularities belong in brain research.

Heller, Carina; Christensen, Erynn; Murata, Elle M; Petersen, Nicole; Casto, Kathleen; Datta, Shae; Larsen, Bart; Arciniega, Hector · Nat Med · 2025

Where this comes from

Abstract

The menstrual cycle requires tight orchestration between the brain and body, and irregularities can be both the cause and the consequence of wide-ranging health issues. Embracing this complexity, instead of excluding individuals with irregular menstrual patterns from research, could reveal novel brain–body interactions, advance neuroscience and improve health outcomes for those affected.