Be Well by Kelly Leveque 361: What Every Woman Should Know About Her Hormones | Sarah Hill
Nov 19, 2025
Sarah E. Hill, an award-winning researcher and author of The Period Brain, dives into how hormones impact women's lives. She explains the effects of estrogen and progesterone on mood, attraction, and relationships throughout the cycle. Hill shares insights on the role of hormonal birth control and its trade-offs, as well as practical tips for syncing diet and training with hormonal phases. She also discusses ways to alleviate PMS, boost ovulation health, and the influence of circadian rhythms, making complex science relatable and actionable.
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Men Pick Up Ovulatory Cues Unconsciously
- Men unconsciously detect cues of female high fertility (scent, movement, appearance) and find women most attractive near ovulation.
- This preference likely evolved because it increased reproductive success.
Progesterone's Neurosteroid Calms The Brain
- Progesterone metabolite allopregnanolone stimulates GABA receptors and promotes neuroplasticity and calming effects akin to a natural anxiolytic.
- This neurosteroid underlies the introspective, bond-seeking tone of the luteal phase.
Reframe Phase Changes As Normal Signals
- Learn your cycle to avoid pathologizing normal phase shifts in mood, sleep, appetite, and sexuality.
- Reframe luteal changes as adaptive signals so you can respond constructively instead of criticizing yourself.
