Sex and Psychology Podcast Episode 435: Why Women’s Health Needs Better Science
Sep 26, 2025
Dr. Sarah Hill, a researcher with over 20 years of experience in women’s health and relationships, sheds light on the shortcomings of traditional medical research that often neglects women’s unique needs. She discusses the pitfalls of one-size-fits-all advice and critiques the male-centered standards in science. Sarah emphasizes how understanding hormonal cycles can drastically improve women’s well-being and advocates for more inclusive research methodologies that consider women's distinct physiological experiences.
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One-Size-Fits-All Medicine Fails Women
- Much medical advice is one-size-fits-all because research historically used male bodies as the norm.
- Women's needs change across the cycle, so fixed guidelines often mislead and harm women's health.
Calories Rise In The Luteal Phase
- During the luteal phase body temperature rises nearly a degree and calorie needs increase ~7–11%.
- Ignoring this leads to cravings, perceived loss of self-control, and harmful dieting cycles.
Adjust Routines By Cycle Phase
- Listen to your body and shift behavior across the cycle: eat and sleep more during the luteal phase and move intense workouts earlier.
- Adjusting routines reduces feeling like you're at war with your body and improves wellbeing.
