We usually hear about men going bald. But hair loss doesn’t only affect men – it happens to women as well.
Hair loss in women could be due to:
Let’s take a closer look at women’s hair loss.
Female-pattern balding is the most common type of hair loss in women. Almost half of all women will experience it to some degree. It often becomes more noticeable after menopause.
Like male pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia) it’s a term for hair loss and thinning in women. It’s usually genetically inherited from either (or both) parents.
Unlike men, though, hair loss and thinning follow a different pattern. You may notice:
Some women will shed hair in bursts — losing more hair for a few months — and then shedding less for a longer period in between.
Some hair loss in women could be caused by an underlying medical problem.
Polycystic ovary syndrome is a condition where the ovaries produce abnormally high levels of male hormones. It is these hormones that can lead to hair loss.
Your doctor might recommend a test to check your hormones if you have:
Certain medicines can cause hair loss or hair thinning. These include:
There is no cure for female-pattern baldness. Some treatments slow down or halt hair loss. Some products could help stimulate regrowth.
The main medicine used to treat female-pattern baldness is minoxidil — prescribed as a lotion to rub into the scalp or as a tablet to take.
If your hair loss is hormone-related, a doctor may prescribe a hormone blocker. This may help slow hair loss.
Other ways to manage or treat hair loss include:
Be wary of claims in advertising, social media, or emails that promise ‘amazing hair regrowth’. There’s still not enough evidence to support using laser, plasma injections, hair tonics or nutritional supplements.
InstantScripts GPs can help you navigate hair loss. It’s quick and easy to book a telehealth consult or request a script.