Key Insights from “Managing Key Hormonal Pathways in Women’s Health”

At TejoMed’s recent event, “Managing Key Hormonal Pathways in Women’s Health,” Dr. Luísa Batista, TejoMed Medical Director and hormonal health expert, led an in-depth discussion on the real impact of hormones on mood, energy, metabolism, and long-term well-being.

The conversation went far beyond generic health advice. It uncovered the critical role of hormonal balance in every stage of a woman’s life. From menstrual health and thyroid function to stress management and hormonal shifts, it provided practical, science-backed strategies to support optimal health.

Here are the key takeaways from the event, designed to help you better understand and take charge of your hormonal health.

1. Addressing the Root Cause, Not Just Symptoms

Women’s health thrives when care goes beyond treating symptoms in isolation. An integrated approach considers the whole picture—lifestyle, diet, mental health, and physical well-being—to identify the root causes of health issues. Regular comprehensive check-ups are key to uncovering underlying imbalances and creating personalized wellness plans that support long-term hormonal health and overall well-being.

2. Understanding Hormonal Cycles

Hormones play a vital role in regulating nearly every function in the body through complex feedback loops between the brain, ovaries, and other organs. Disruptions in these systems can lead to hormonal imbalances, affecting overall health. One of the most overlooked factors? Regular ovulation. Ovulation is essential for natural progesterone production, which helps balance estrogen levels, support mental well-being, and maintain hormonal stability over time.

3. Combating Estrogen Dominance

Estrogen dominance was highlighted as a common issue for women, particularly those experiencing heavy or painful periods, mood swings, or other premenstrual symptoms. 

Key Strategies to restore balance:

• Supporting liver detoxification with B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc.

• Eating fiber-rich foods and cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale.

• Avoiding inflammatory foods, such as sugar, dairy, and processed oils.

4. The Hidden Impact of Hormonal Contraception

While hormonal birth control effectively prevents pregnancy, it can also mask underlying hormonal imbalances, leading to mood shifts, weight fluctuations, and changes in libido. Women should be informed about how synthetic hormones work and explore alternative options that align with their long-term health goals.

5. The Gut-Hormone Connection

A healthy gut is critical for hormonal health. Conditions like leaky gut can exacerbate inflammation, impair detoxification, and contribute to autoimmune disorders such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis.

Practical tips included:

• Consuming fermented foods and probiotics.

• Avoiding inflammatory foods and toxins.

• Managing stress, which directly affects gut health.

6. The Link Between Stress & Hormonal Imbalances

Chronic stress and poor sleep were identified as major disruptors of hormonal balance. Incorporating stress management practices, such as mindfulness and restorative sleep routines, is essential.

Elevated cortisol levels can:

• Disrupt ovulation and menstrual cycles

• Increase inflammation and gut issues

• Promote fat storage around vital organs

7. Why Thyroid Health Matters More Than You Think

Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism and energy production in every cell, yet many thyroid imbalances go undiagnosed or are mismanaged. Issues like hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause fatigue, weight changes, and hair loss. Early diagnosis, including antibody testing for autoimmune conditions, is crucial for effective management.

8. The Importance of Advocacy

The event emphasized that women must advocate for themselves in healthcare settings. Misdiagnosis and normalization of symptoms like painful periods or fatigue are common barriers to proper care. Education and self-tracking tools, like basal body temperature and ovulation tracking, can empower women to take charge of their health.

Understanding hormonal health is the first step, but applying this knowledge can feel overwhelming. Every woman’s body is different, and what works for one may not work for another. That’s where professional guidance can make all the difference.

At TejoMed, we take a comprehensive, doctor-led approach from professionals like Dr. Luísa Batista, ensuring you have a dedicated physician who truly understands your unique health needs. With longer appointment times, fewer patients per doctor, and a proactive focus on root-cause medicine, we help you track and optimize your hormonal health over time.