Female Hair Loss and Menopause

The menopausal period marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years and is defined as beginning one year after the last menstrual period.

This phase often brings about several new changes, one of which can include hair thinning, sometimes accompanied by hair loss.

Although hair loss during menopause is directly linked to changes in hormone levels during this period—a factor clearly responsible for most cases of hair loss—other causes should not be overlooked. These can also contribute, to a greater or lesser degree, to hair loss in some cases.

Female Hair Loss and Hormonal Changes During Menopause
Hair loss is not one of the first symptoms of menopause that most women would think of, as this phase is more commonly associated with hot flashes, mood swings, and weight gain.

Like these other symptoms, hair weakening and possible hair loss result from hormonal changes in the female body during menopause and occur in approximately 40% of cases.

The primary hormonal change is a decrease in estrogen levels, which is the main cause of hair weakening, as it affects the hair growth cycle.

Specifically, estrogens help keep hair in the growth phase (anagen phase) for a longer time. Their reduction shortens this phase of the cycle.

While estrogen levels decrease during menopause, androgen levels increase.

This change does not necessarily lead to hair loss but can contribute to hair shaft thinning, often resulting in a significant reduction in hair volume.

These hormonal changes can lead to hair thinning or hair loss, depending on an individual’s genetic predisposition.

Other Risk Factors
Other factors, which are directly or indirectly related to hair health, can also contribute to minor or major hair loss during menopause. These should be taken into consideration before beginning any treatment.

Such factors include stress, dietary habits that negatively affect hair, and hormonal imbalances such as thyroid dysfunction.

Hormone Replacement Therapy
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) aims to restore estrogen levels to near premenopausal levels, alleviating the unpleasant symptoms of menopause and preventing osteoporosis.

In many cases, HRT can help address the negative effects of estrogen reduction on hair.

However, it should be noted that not all treatments are suitable for every individual, as certain therapies may worsen the condition.

It is therefore essential to include hair loss as part of the medical history when discussing options with your doctor.

What to Look Out For
Hair loss, especially in its early stages, is reversible.

It is crucial to consult a specialist if you notice greater hair loss than usual. A proper evaluation can help identify the causes and address the issue effectively.

In terms of treatment, patience is required, as hair restoration is a gradual process.

Today’s available treatments focus on slowing the rate of hair loss and covering problematic areas. The choice of the most suitable treatment depends on the cause and extent of the problem, as well as the patient’s response.