Plenty with Kate Northrup

127: How Women Actually Heal: Nervous System, Vitality, Hormones & Pleasure with Dr. Sara Gottfried Szal

12 snips
Sep 23, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Sara Gottfried Szal, a women's health physician and bestselling author, dives deep into the intricacies of women's health and vitality. She highlights the importance of nervous system regulation and embracing hormonal rhythms for true healing. Dr. Szal discusses strategies for advocating for oneself in medical settings and shares insights on preparing for menopause and maintaining egg health. The episode emphasizes the power of pleasure, embodiment, and boundaries in reclaiming agency over our health journeys.
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INSIGHT

Women Face Unique Health Hazards

  • Women face unique health hazards from biological and sociocultural factors that worsen outcomes.
  • Sara Gottfried says dismissal by healthcare and increased trauma make women's health urgent to address.
ADVICE

Measure Stress And HRV Early

  • Track stress biomarkers during reproductive years to build a baseline for later care.
  • Measure cortisol and heart rate variability to monitor sympathetic/parasympathetic balance.
ADVICE

Skip Alcohol For Better Recovery

  • Avoid regular alcohol because it severely reduces heart rate variability and sleep quality.
  • Even one or two drinks can disrupt sleep for seven to eight nights, degrading recovery.
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