Why You Think Your Period Syncs With Your Friends (It's Probably Confirmation Bias)

Many women believe that their menstrual cycles synchronize with those of their close friends or roommates. However, a recent video by OBGYN Dr. Jennifer Lincoln sheds light on this common misconception. Dr. Lincoln explains the phenomenon through the lens of "confirmation bias." Confirmation bias is a cognitive bias where individuals tend to favor information that confirms their existing beliefs. In the context of menstrual cycles, this means that instances of synchronized periods are more memorable and therefore seem more frequent than they actually are. Dr. Lincoln clarifies that while some degree of synchronization may occur due to shared environmental factors, the widespread belief is largely due to selective memory. The video has garnered significant attention online, highlighting the widespread interest in this topic. Dr. Lincoln's explanation provides a scientifically grounded perspective on a commonly held belief, offering a valuable insight into human psychology and perception.