GLP-1 Medications for Women: What to Know Before You Start

Feb 4

By Coven Women’s Health, featuring Dr. Michelle Jacobson OBGYN and Nishta Saxena RD

GLP-1 medications are everywhere right now. On social media, in the news, and increasingly in conversations between women navigating weight changes, PCOS, insulin resistance, and midlife hormonal shifts.

For many women, the interest in GLP-1s comes with equal parts hope and confusion. Are they safe? Are they appropriate? Are they the “answer” or just another trend?

At Coven, we believe GLP-1 medications can be a helpful tool for some women, but they are never a standalone solution. The best outcomes happen when GLP-1s are approached with context, nutrition support, and clinical oversight not shortcuts or hype.

If you’re considering GLP-1s, this guide will help you understand where they fit, what to be mindful of, and how to start safely.

Why GLP-1 Medications Are Everywhere Right Now

GLP-1 medications were originally developed to support blood sugar regulation in people with type 2 diabetes. Over time, clinicians observed additional effects on appetite regulation, insulin sensitivity, and weight.

Women, in particular, are paying attention because:

Weight changes often feel harder to manage with age
PCOS and insulin resistance are underdiagnosed and undertreated
Hormonal transitions can significantly alter metabolism
Traditional advice like “eat less, move more” often stops working

GLP-1s address biology, not willpower, which is why they’ve resonated with so many women who feel blamed or dismissed in traditional care settings.

How GLP-1s Work in Women’s Bodies

GLP-1 medications work by:

Slowing gastric emptying
Increasing feelings of fullness
Supporting appetite regulation
Improving insulin sensitivity for some individuals

For women, outcomes are influenced by factors such as:

Hormonal health
Muscle mass
Nutritional status
Stress and sleep
Underlying conditions like PCOS

This is why women can have very different experiences on the same medication and why individualized care matters.

Who GLP-1s May Help and Who Should Be Cautious

GLP-1 medications may be helpful for women who are experiencing:

Insulin resistance or metabolic dysfunction
PCOS-related weight and appetite challenges
Persistent weight changes despite appropriate nutrition and lifestyle support

However, GLP-1s are not appropriate for everyone, and caution is warranted when:

Nutrition intake is already inadequate
There is a history of disordered eating
Muscle mass is low
Symptoms are driven primarily by hormonal or stress-related factors

Medication decisions should never happen in isolation especially for women.

Common GLP-1 Side Effects Women Should Know About

Many women are prescribed GLP-1s without adequate counselling or follow-up. Common challenges we see include:

Nausea or GI discomfort
Fatigue
Difficulty eating enough protein
Loss of lean muscle mass
Nutrient deficiencies
Weight regain after stopping medication

These risks don’t mean GLP-1s should be avoided they mean they should be supported properly.

Why Nutrition Support Matters on GLP-1s

One of the most overlooked aspects of GLP-1 care is nutrition.

Because GLP-1s suppress appetite, women may eat less — but not necessarily enough of what their bodies need. Over time, this can compromise:

Muscle mass
Hormonal health
Energy levels
Long-term metabolic health

Working with a Registered Dietitian helps ensure:

Adequate protein intake to protect muscle
Sufficient micronutrients
Energy intake that supports hormones and metabolism
A plan that is sustainable — on or off medication

At Coven, nutrition is foundational, not optional, in GLP-1 care.

How Coven Approaches GLP-1 Care for Women

Coven’s approach to GLP-1 medications is:

Assessment-first, not medication-first
Grounded in nutrition, lifestyle, and clinical context
Personalized and adaptable over time

For many women, the most effective first step isn’t medication — it’s understanding why weight or metabolic changes are happening in the first place.

Considering GLP-1s? Here’s the Best Place to Start

If you’re:

Curious about GLP-1 medications but unsure if they’re right for you
Already on a GLP-1 and want to protect your health long-term
Managing PCOS, insulin resistance, or weight changes
Feeling overwhelmed by conflicting advice

A nutrition consultation is often the simplest and safest starting point.

Booking a consult with Nish, one of Coven’s Registered Dietitians, allows you to:

Explore whether GLP-1s make sense in your context
Build a nutrition plan that supports metabolic and hormonal health
Understand what additional care (if any) may be appropriate next

From there, care can expand thoughtfully — including medical support when needed.

→ Book a nutrition consultation with Nish
and start with clarity, not pressure.

GLP-1 FAQs for Women

Are GLP-1 medications safe for women?
GLP-1 medications can be safe and effective when appropriately prescribed and supported. Individual health history, hormonal context, and nutrition status all matter.

Do GLP-1s work for women with PCOS?
For some women with PCOS, GLP-1s may support insulin resistance and appetite regulation, but they should be used alongside nutrition and lifestyle care.

Can you take GLP-1s without losing muscle?
Yes — but only with adequate protein intake, resistance training, and clinical oversight.

Do you need to work with a dietitian on GLP-1s?
Strongly recommended. Appetite suppression without nutritional planning can increase health risks.