DAILY RATINGS OF ENERGY AND SLEEP ACROSS THE MENSTRUAL CYCLE PHASES (DREAM-CP)

BACKGROUND: There is a significant sex difference gap in existing literature on females and their sex-specific physiological and psychological differences from males. Female-specific research is crucial to developing tailored, high-impact sleep interventions that address each menstrual cycle phases’ (MCP) changes. This study aims to understand female sleep scores, and activity levels while tracking MCPs. Sleep data and activity levels will be examined via Fitbit accelerometers over a 3-month period. METHODS: Ten females, 18-45 years old, will voluntarily participate, regardless of contraceptive status. After consenting, each participant will attend a familiarization visit during their menstruation phase to receive study instructions and a Fitbit accelerometer. Fitbits will always be worn for activity tracking, and during sleep. Results will be analyzed using separate within-repeated measures ANOVAs; effect sizes will be reported using partial eta squared (η²p) and Cohen’s d, and p<0.05 indicating statistical significance. ANTICIPATED RESULTS: It is hypothesized that sleep quality -as measured by lower sleep scores- will decline during the luteal phase, specifically when progesterone and estradiol fluctuate. These hormonal changes elevate body temperature, suppress production of hormones like melatonin, and reduce REM sleep duration. Consequently, females are more likely to awake feeling unrested and fatigued during the luteal phase.

Grant or funding information: This project is made possible by the funding from the University of North Georgia’s Center for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (CURCA) Student-Faculty Collaborative Mini Grant.