Culture Apothecary with Alex Clark Your Brain on Birth Control ... and PMS | Sarah Hill, PhD
Nov 14, 2025
Dr. Sarah Hill, an award-winning researcher and author focusing on hormones and sexual behavior, dives into the surprising effects of hormonal birth control on women's moods, desires, and even partner preferences. She discusses how natural hormonal rhythms differ between men and women, shedding light on PMS misconceptions and the environmental factors at play. Hill also emphasizes the need for cycle-aware health approaches and shares insights on how men can better understand women's cyclical needs.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Female Biology Is Systematically Overlooked
- Most medical norms were built on male bodies so women's luteal-phase needs get ignored.
- Progesterone flips many body switches, changing sleep, calories, threat sensitivity, and recovery.
Desire Shifts Across The Cycle
- Women's sexual desire peaks with rising estrogen and drops in the luteal phase when progesterone dominates.
- Desire shifts from spontaneous sex to responsive, connection-driven intimacy after ovulation.
Adjust Sleep And Calories For Luteal Needs
- Track your cycle and adjust sleep, calories, and social needs for the luteal phase to reduce PMS.
- Give your body ~7–11% more calories and extra sleep in the second half of the cycle.
