In this episode of Science Savvy, we tackle one of the most common yet least understood experiences in women’s health: why do we get periods. From evolutionary theories to hormonal rollercoasters, I explore the biology and history behind menstruation and the science that underlies symptoms like bloating, mood swings, and acne. With my background in pharmacology and biomedical engineering, I break down why periods exist in the first place and what they can reveal about your health.
We look at the theories around menstruation as a defense mechanism, the evolution of concealed ovulation, and how different phases of the cycle impact your brain, energy levels, and even your creativity. Whether you’re curious about how your body works or want to better align your lifestyle with your cycle, this episode offers practical insights grounded in biology and evolutionary science.
Science Savvy is here to help you understand your body and brain through a scientific lens. If you’re ready to work with your cycle instead of against it, this episode is for you.
Further reading and references:
Profet, M. (1993). Menstruation as a defense against pathogens transported by sperm. The Quarterly Review of Biology, 68(3), 335-386. Strassmann, B. I. (1996). The evolution of endometrial cycles and menstruation. The Quarterly Review of Biology, 71(2), 181-220. Pawlowski, B. (1999). Loss of oestrus and concealed ovulation in human evolution: The case against the sexual-selection hypothesis. Current Anthropology, 40(3), 257-275. Emera, D., Romero, R., & Wagner, G. (2012). The evolution of menstruation: A new model for genetic assimilation. BioEssays, 34(1), 26-35. Hillard, P. J. A., & Speroff, L. (2019). Clinical Gynecologic Endocrinology and Infertility. Wolters Kluwer Health. Miller, G., Tybur, J. M., & Jordan, B. D. (2007). Ovulatory cycle effects on tip earnings by lap dancers: Economic evidence for human estrus. Evolution and Human Behavior, 28(6), 375-381. Haselton, M. G., & Gildersleeve, K. (2011). Can men detect ovulation. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 20(2), 87-92. Johnson, S., Marriott, L., & Zinaman, M. (2018). Accuracy of an online fertility tracker. Journal of Women's Health, 27(4), 435-442. Wilcox, A. J., Weinberg, C. R., & Baird, D. D. (1995). Timing of sexual intercourse in relation to ovulation. The New England Journal of Medicine, 333(23), 1517-1521. Yang, Z., & Schank, J. C. (2006). Women do not synchronize their menstrual cycles. Human Nature, 17(4), 433-447. Frank-Herrmann, P., et al. (2007). The effectiveness of a fertility awareness-based method to avoid pregnancy in relation to a couple's sexual behavior during the fertile time. Human Reproduction, 22(5), 1310-1319. Berglund Scherwitzl, E., et al. (2017). Fertility awareness-based mobile application for contraception. The European Journal of Contraception & Reproductive Health Care, 22(5), 365-373.
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