infradian rhythms

Question 1

infradian rhythm

Answer 1

biological rhythm with FREQUENCY of less than one cycle in 24 hrs

Question 2

menstrual cycle

Answer 2

typical cycle is around 28 days (24-35 days normal)
-rising levels of oestrogen cause ovary to develop egg and release (ovulation)
-progesterone helps lining to grow thicker preparing for pregnancy
- if NOT pregnant, egg is absorbed and womb lining leaves body

Question 3

research

Answer 3

mcclintock:
29 women with irregular periods
sample of pheromones were collected from 9 women via a cotton pad under their armpits
- pads worn 8+ hrs to ensure pheromones were picked up
then treated with alcohol + frozen + rubbed on upper lips of 20 women
- on day 1, pads from day 1 were applied to all 20 women
day 2, from day 2 of cycle and so on
FOUND 68% women experienced changes to cycle closer to their ‘odour donor’

Question 4

seasonal affective disorder

Answer 4

depressive disorder
mental disorder in DSM-5
symptoms: low mood, general lack of activity, interest in life
‘winter blues’ as they are triggered by days getting shorter
‘circannual rhythm’ (yearly cycle)
cause: theory is melatonin
at night, pineal gland secretes melanin until daylight. the lack of light in winter means this is prolonged and has effect on serotonin which is linked to depressive symptoms