S4E8: Understanding Emotional Regulation Across Hormonal Transitions

Welcome back to Season 4 of Women’s Health Interrupted! In this episode, we speak with Dr. Birgit Derntl, whose research explores emotional processing, stress, and mental health across hormonal transitions. Dr. Derntl discusses how hormonal changes can influence (positive and negative) emotional regulation and susceptibility to mental health challenges, why some individuals are more sensitive than others, and what we know about the relationship between hormonal contraceptives and depression. She explores the importance of evidence-based emotional regulation strategies, and the gaps in our understanding of women’s mental health across the lifespan. We also discuss how science communication, research funding, and policy can better support women’s health—and why investing in women’s health research benefits everyone. Host: Dr. Liisa Galea Editor: Dr. Andrew McGovern Producer: Dr. Andrew McGovern Marketing: Felicia Gisondi Music by Dr. Andrew McGovern New episodes of Women’s Health Interrupted will be available every Wednesday. Please rate, review, and subscribe to our podcast wherever you find your podcasts. Learn more about the Women's Health Research Cluster on their website: https://womenshealthresearchcluster.com/