Your hormones, your health: What women should know at every age

Your hormones impact nearly every system in your body. For women, they can be both powerful messengers and, at times, frustrating disruptors. From puberty to pregnancy to menopause, shifting hormone levels can affect everything from mood and energy to metabolism and sleep. 

We sat down with Katie Marshall, a provider at Rezilient Health, to talk about how hormones influence women's health throughout their lives and what support is available when things don't feel right.

What do hormones actually do?

“When people think of hormones, they usually think of estrogen or progesterone,” Katie explained. “But hormones go far beyond reproductive health. They include things like insulin, cortisol, dopamine, and thyroid hormones. These regulate everything from metabolism to stress response to mental clarity.” 

Throughout life, hormone levels naturally shift. Puberty, pregnancy, perimenopause, and menopause all bring different challenges. “Each stage can impact emotional well-being, sexual health, and physical changes – sometimes all at once,” she said.

The real effects of hormonal changes

• Physical health: Changes in estrogen or testosterone can influence metabolism and fat distribution, especially around menopause. Low estrogen, for example, may contribute to increased abdominal fat or decreased bone density. Thyroid issues and insulin resistance can also show up as fatigue, weight gain, or difficulty concentrating. 

• Mental and emotional health: “There’s evidence to support that mood swings, anxiety, or even brain fog can be linked to hormonal changes,” Katie said. “It’s not just in your head. It’s in your body’s chemistry.” 

• Sexual health: Hormones can also impact libido and vaginal health. “Things like how libido or dryness can show up during different life stages and affect relationships. But they’re very treatable and important to talk about.” 

• Energy and sleep: If you’re exhausted and can’t figure out why, a thyroid imbalance or other hormonal issue may be behind it. “We often run lab tests to check these levels and get to the root of the problem,” Katie added.

Supporting hormone health naturally and medically

While every person’s hormone profile is unique, there are a few universal tips Katie recommends: 

• Stay active with regular movement

• Prioritize sleep and rest

• Eat a balanced, nutrient-rich diet

• Practice stress-reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, or breathwork

“Those basic self-care habits really do help,” she said, “but they won’t always solve everything. That’s why Rezilient is here to help you.” 

When to talk to a provider

“Any time you have questions about your body, ask,” Katie emphasized. “There’s so much misinformation online, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by what you read on social media or Google.” 

Rezilient providers can help by: 

• Running lab tests for hormone levels, thyroid function, insulin resistance, and more

• Recommending treatments or referrals, like gynecologists or therapists

• Offering reassurance when what you’re experiencing is normal, but still uncomfortable 

“Our job is to listen and make sure you feel heard,” Katie said.

Don’t put yourself last

Women are often the caregivers, the schedulers, the ones making sure everyone else gets to the doctor. But they can forget to care for themselves. “If you’re not taking care of yourself,” Katie said, “it’s harder to take care of anyone else.” 

Rezilient is here to help you prioritize your health. Even when life gets busy. 

Schedule an appointment today.