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.
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