This is my personal opinion on igf-1 in women. I think it's over rated for the cost and it usually needs to be run long to see changes. IGF-1 does seem to work quicker because there is no conversion, BUT women tend to hold quite a lot of water on it. So it can be confusing when it comes to fat loss. But yes, you can expect some fat loss and yes it will help to maintain muscle.
The one major issue especially in women is it can slow the thyroid. I have read different things about whether it does or doesn't but I have seen it happen more times then not. I have seen women actually gain weight on it due to this, but insulin is also a factor. I really don't recommend running it in women who aren't sure of where their thyroid is currently at. It also affects sugar levels so you have to be consistent in making sure levels are maintained IF you are using it for fat loss only (not using insulin etc for growth).
I like it for spot injections. Especially in the tummy, or back of thighs where fat loss is harder for a woman.
I am a believer of ramping up and down on anything with a woman. They tend to have more sides and I believe it is much less damaging to the system then immediately starting and stopping things. It allows the system to adjust and allows the woman to note and make changes on doses if needed.