Live Well Be Well with Sarah Ann Macklin | Health, Lifestyle, Nutrition Estrogen vs. Progesterone: Why Women Need Both for Brain Protection | Sarah Hill
Feb 13, 2026
Sarah Hill, a research scientist who studies hormones and brain function, explains why both estrogen and progesterone matter. She unpacks the overlooked luteal phase. She highlights progesterone’s role in mood, sleep, decision making, and brain protection after injury. She raises questions about progesterone and Alzheimer’s.
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Two Wise Advisors In The Cycle
- Women's brains shift across the cycle, creating two distinct sets of strengths and perspectives.
- Sarah Hill suggests treating each phase as a wise advisor to improve decision making.
The Overlooked Luteal Phase
- The luteal phase is underdiscussed and often makes women feel lower energy and more emotionally sensitive.
- Sarah Hill calls it the 'dark half' because progesterone's role and effects are largely ignored.
Progesterone Shapes The Brain Too
- Progesterone is as important as estrogen for shaping brain function and behavior beyond the uterus.
- Sarah Hill emphasizes progesterone's neuroprotective role and its effect on slowing brain firing.