Human menstrual synchrony: a critical assessment/

Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 1993 Winter;17(4):427-39. doi: 10.1016/s0149-7634(05)80118-6.

Abstract

This review on menstrual synchrony in human females has four purposes: (a) to determine whether or not the phenomenon exists, and whether it differs in the various groups studied: roommates in dormitories, roommates in private residences, close friends, work groups, mothers-daughters; (b) to assess the magnitude of its effect, i.e., to what extent does the single factor of living together affect menstrual synchrony?; (c) to examine the effects of menstrual-related factors, social interaction factors, and personality on menstrual synchrony; (d) to assess whether the findings support a pheromonal or common environmental explanation of menstrual synchrony. Several methodological issues are also discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Bias
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Menstruation / physiology*
  • Menstruation / psychology
  • Pheromones / physiology*
  • Social Environment*

Substances

  • Pheromones