Whole-Brain Dynamics in the Natural Menstrual Cycle vs. an Ovarian Stimulated Cycle: Impact of Hormonal Fluctuations on Healthy Women Undergoing Ovarian Stimulation

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are exploring how the brain's activity changes during different phases of the menstrual cycle and ovarian stimulation cycle in young, healthy women. This study compares natural hormonal fluctuations with those caused by externally given hormones during ovarian stimulation, aiming to understand their impact on brain dynamics. The research focuses on brain function and neurodynamics using advanced imaging techniques. Participants will undergo assessments across both their natural menstrual cycle and an ovarian stimulation cycle. The study involves six functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans taken at key cycle points: basal phase, ovulation, and mid-luteal phase, during both natural and stimulated cycles. Alongside imaging, blood tests for hormone levels and vaginal ultrasounds are performed at each stage, plus a buccal swab for genome sequencing at the start. Throughout the study, participants will attend eight visits for evaluations including hormone measurements, ultrasound scans, and brain imaging. Researchers will monitor brain activity patterns using resting-state fMRI and collect data on hormone fluctuations including estradiol, LH, FSH, and progesterone. The study helps increase understanding of how ovarian stimulation may affect brain function, with safety and neurophysiological effects carefully observed over the study duration.

Whole-Brain Dynamics in the Natural Menstrual Cycle vs. an Ovarian Stimulated Cycle: Impact of Hormonal Fluctuations on Healthy Women Undergoing Ovarian Stimulation