Changes in preference for male faces during the menstrual cycle in a Spanish population

摘要: A recent and controversial hypothesis suggests the presence of an oestrus phase in women as other mammals. This implies that at their optimal fertility point menstrual cycle exhibit behaviors focused to maximize genetic quality offspring. Several studies support this hypothesis, finding fertile tend prefer men with traits associated phenotypic quality, such greater facial masculinization symmetry. We experimentally tested some observations supporting a population 810 young Spanish women. analyzed whether preference for masculinized male faces is affected by i) cycle, ii) having stable partner iii) use birth control pills. could not reproduce effect first two factors, but we found using hormonal contraceptives less masculine faces. These results indicate evidences humans must be reviewed, incorporating data from different socio-cultural ethnic populations.