Understanding Cortisol and Its Effects on Women's Health Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. It's commonly called "stress hormone," since it releases when your body perceives danger or threat. While cortisol plays an essential role in survival in small amounts, prolonged stress can cause cortisol levels to rise dramatically, leading to weight gain, high blood pressure, and anxiety. Women must manage cortisol levels carefully, as fluctuations can impact