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Menopause and Hair Loss
In most cases there is an unclear cause for hair loss in women but often it is attributed to menopause and hair loss. Many people who suffer from hair loss do so because it is hereditary. Women who inherit hair loss usually see hair loss and menopause begin at about the same time.
When a woman goes into menopause her body slows down the production of hormones which is often associated with hair loss. It has been studied that hair growth requires a certain amount of testosterone which is present in men. High levels of testosterone in women may cause hair loss such as that the man experiences. It is estimated that about 40% of women will experience hair loss to some degree but fewer will experience baldness.
Women who have higher than normal levels of testosterone may experience hair loss and menopause at the same time. Often women who are going through menopause will also suffer from anemia which is also associated with menopause and hair loss. There are treatments that women can take that can help prevent this problem if she chooses to start treatments at the onset of menopause. Often hormonal therapy is all that is needed.
Other menopause and hair loss problems may be associated with thyroid disorders or fungal infections. While the woman’s body is going through menopause there are several elements that come into play along with the decrease in hormone production.
Some women may elect to participate in testosterone therapy because it gives them a better quality of life after menopause. Before beginning this type of therapy the woman should discuss the hair loss problem with her doctor. There may be other hormonal replacement treatments that can still provide a better quality of life and still not cause menopause and hair loss.
Hair loss and menopause is perceived differently by different women. Some women will experience hair thinning during this period and may not be comfortable with having less hair. Every woman who is affected by hair loss should address the situation with her doctor to determine if there is an underlying cause for the hair loss. There are many diseases that can cause hair loss that have nothing to do with menopause so it is best to get a thorough physical to determine if the hair loss is normal of not.
For those who experience hair loss or hair
thinning, there are ways that the condition can be dealt with
and held down to a minimum. Perhaps it is time for a new hairstyle
or the addition of a hair piece to help cover up the condition. The
important thing to remember is that your life is not over just because
you lose some hair. There are many ways to effectively deal with hair
loss.
