Hormone Research Study

Researchers at the University of Washington are conducting a study to examine how hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle impact emotions, cognitions, and behavior – especially, but not exclusively, at work.

Fast Facts

Women ages 18-44

Have not used hormonal contraception or treatments in the past 3 months (copper IUDs are okay!)

Compensation and full cycle hormone map provided

Conducted in Seattle, WA

Study Background

Researchers at the University of Washington are conducting a study to examine how hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle impact emotions, cognitions, and behavior – especially, but not exclusively, at work.

Our study investigates the influence of hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle on emotional states, cognitive functions, and behavioral patterns, with a particular focus on workplace environments. Hormonal fluctuations are known to affect mood, decision-making, and interpersonal interactions, which can have significant implications for work performance and well-being. By closely examining these dynamics, we aim to identify patterns and effects that can inform better understanding and management of these variations.
 

The results of this research are intended to empower individuals experiencing hormonal shifts by providing them with insights into how these changes might affect their work lives. Additionally, we hope to guide organizations in developing supportive policies and practices that accommodate the needs of all employees affected by hormonal fluctuations, regardless of their stage in life. This could lead to more inclusive and supportive work environments, fostering better overall employee well-being and productivity.

Study Background

Researchers at the University of Washington are conducting a study to examine how hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle impact emotions, cognitions, and behavior – especially, but not exclusively, at work.

Our study investigates the influence of hormonal changes throughout the menstrual cycle on emotional states, cognitive functions, and behavioral patterns, with a particular focus on workplace environments. Hormonal fluctuations are known to affect mood, decision-making, and interpersonal interactions, which can have significant implications for work performance and well-being. By closely examining these dynamics, we aim to identify patterns and effects that can inform better understanding and management of these variations.
 

The results of this research are intended to empower individuals experiencing hormonal shifts by providing them with insights into how these changes might affect their work lives. Additionally, we hope to guide organizations in developing supportive policies and practices that accommodate the needs of all employees affected by hormonal fluctuations, regardless of their stage in life. This could lead to more inclusive and supportive work environments, fostering better overall employee well-being and productivity.

Additional Information

Researchers at the University of Washington are exploring how hormonal fluctuations throughout the menstrual cycle influence emotional states, cognitive functions, and behaviors. Their study aims to understand these effects and their impacts on our lives, guide workplace policies to support menstruating employees, and provide participants with increased knowledge about their full hormonal profile during their menstrual cycle.

You may qualify for a study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Females ages 18-44
  • Have not used hormonal contraception or treatment in the past 3 months (note: copper IUD users welcome!) 
  • Experience regular menstrual periods
  • Work 5 or more days per week
  • Not pregnant and do not plan to be pregnant for at least the next two months

If you choose to participate in this study, you’ll start by using an at-home hormone data collection kit throughout one full menstrual cycle, which lasts between 21 and 35 days. This process includes downloading an app and using a test strip to collect your first morning urine on specific days as instructed by the app. Additionally, you’ll be asked to complete a brief 5-minute daily survey each evening and a more detailed 15-20-minute survey on three separate occasions.

As a participant, you will receive a hormone kit with a full cycle map ($100 value) as well as up to a $55 cash bonus for full study participation. Additionally, you can receive a free wearable should you choose to contribute wearable data.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.