Hair Loss and Menopause: Issues Affecting Women's Health
Here at the Chicago Hair Institute, we always take matters regarding hair loss and hair thinning seriously. While many of our patients are men, we also offer women's hair loss and thinning treatments that are tailored to the unique needs of female patients.
Since many women have questions about hair loss related to menopause, we'd like to go over these matters in brief right now.
About Menopause
A natural part of the aging process, menopause occurs 12 months after a woman has experienced her final menstrual cycle. In general, menopause occurs in a woman's 40s and 50s. After menopause, a woman is no longer fertile. With the onset of menopause, a woman may experience a number of physical symptoms, including hot flashes, feelings of anxiety, or disruptions/changes in sleep pattern.
Another common symptom of menopause is hair loss. This can be distressing to some women, which is why we want to go over these matters in more detail.
Why does hair loss/thinning occur during menopause?
During menopause, a woman's body undergoes a number of hormonal changes. These changes in hormone levels can lead to hair thinning and hair loss. In addition to hormone changes, the hair loss that comes with menopause may be the result of genetics, stress, thyroid conditions, and other changes to the body that occur as part of the natural aging process.
How serious is the hair loss/thinning?
In a number of cases, the hair thinning is noticeable and may be significant. Keep in mind that hair loss is typically noticeable after half of a person's hair is lost. Since women have different hair loss patterns than men, their hair loss tends to be dispersed and more evenly distributed. This means thinning more than bald patches on the scalp.
Is hair transplant surgery necessary for treatment?
No.
In most cases, the hair loss following menopause is temporary and resolves itself as a woman adjust to the changes to her body. Since hair loss patterns for women are different than those in men, hair transplantation generally is not a good option for women in general.
What's the best option for dealing with hair loss related to menopause?
Since the condition is only temporary, the best option for women who experience hair loss following menopause is to be patient and allow the process to run its course. It can take some time, but the issue does tend to resolve itself on its own. For severe hair loss, there may be medications provided by your general practitioner than can be helpful.
With that in mind, there are ways to help minimize the hair thinning or reduce its overall duration.
Tips for Preventing/Minimizing Hair Loss During Menopause
In order to reduce and minimize the hair loss and hair thinning associated with menopause, consider the following tips:
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables
- Exercise regularly to stay in good shape
- Drink water to stay well hydrated
- Avoid hair products and hairstyles that place strain on your hair and scalp
Schedule a Consultation at Chicago Hair Institute
For more information about hair loss during menopause and what you can do to improve the health, quality, and thickness of your hair, be sure to contact our hair restoration and transplant surgery experts today. The team here at Chicago Hair Institute will work with you to ensure the best hair restoration solution possible.
