Modern Wisdom #992 - Dr Sarah Hill - The Period Brain: How Hormones Change Women’s Behaviour
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Sep 11, 2025 
Dr. Sarah Hill, a TCU professor and research psychologist, dives into how hormonal changes impact women's behavior and relationships. She explains how these monthly shifts can affect mood, stress, and attraction, challenging the stereotypes surrounding PMS. Hill discusses the implications of hormonal birth control on mental health and questions whether PMS might actually serve a vital purpose. The conversation sheds light on the importance of understanding these biological rhythms for improved communication and well-being in both men and women.
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Two Distinct Monthly Brain States
- The menstrual cycle alternates between an estrogenic phase (attraction, energy) and a progestogenic phase (pregnancy prep, sensitivity).
- These shifts change brain connectivity, threat detection, appetite, sleep, and drug metabolism.
Progesterone Tunes Sensitivity And Energy Needs
- Progesterone in the luteal phase increases amygdala connectivity and lowers threat thresholds, making women more sensitive to social and relationship threats.
- Progesterone also raises basal metabolic rate, hunger, sleepiness, and GABAergic calming activity to conserve energy for possible pregnancy.
Adjust Calories And Rest By Phase
- Increase calories by ~8–11% in the luteal phase to match raised basal metabolic rate and avoid cravings.
- Track phase-based needs and adjust food and rest rather than treating every day the same.
