Hair loss in females is often particularly distressing. A woman's hair is a big part of what makes her feel feminine, young and beautiful. When it starts to fall out or thin, it can leave her feel exposed and self-conscious and lead to feelings of despair or depression. There are many reasons for women's hair loss, the most common of which are outlined below.
Genetic or Female Pattern Hair Loss
Female pattern hair loss is not uncommon; one quarter of the female population are potentially at risk from it. The deciding factor is in your genes. If both parents are carriers of the dominant hair loss gene, there is a good chance you will be affected by it. However, due to the higher levels of estrogen present in women, if just one parent carries the hair loss gene, it is unlikely to ever become active.
Hair loss of this nature occurs far more gradually in women than it does in men. It tends to follow a pattern; initially the hair on the top of the head and front of the scalp weakens and becomes finer. This is followed in severe cases by hair loss at the crown and in the area above the ears. When this happens, it is due to increased levels of testosterone in the women's body. Severe cases are often accompanied by outbreaks of acne, an over-production of sebum leading to oily skin, increased growth in facial and body hair, menstrual disturbance and lowered fertility.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
In this case, ovarian malfunction results in the metabolism of testosterone instead of the production of estrogen. Hair loss is a major symptom along with menstrual arrest, infertility, acne and hirsutism. All of these symptoms can be treated, usually successfully using hormone therapy and minor surgeries.
Stress- Related Hair Loss
Theories abound as to the reasons behind female hair loss but one persistent factor is that of stress. As women's roles have changed over time, to encompass careers as well as family life, so their stress levels have increased. A growing number of women are now suffering from stress related illnesses, such as stomach ulcers, heart disease and raised blood pressure. Hair loss is also, directly attributable to stress and it is apparent that this is no longer a male preserve.
When a person is under stress, their body can produce chemicals, which cause the hair follicles to enter the resting phase. During this time, hair continues to fall as usual but no new growth takes place. This results in a thinner looking head of hair and eventual hair loss.
The estrogen in a women's body would normally protect a woman from hair loss. However during periods of acute stress, the production of estrogen is lowered. This can lead to testosterone becoming more active in the body and genetically targeting hair follicles.
Hair Loss Following Pregnancy, Miscarriage or Termination
During early pregnancy the normal level of estrogen is increased in a women's body leading to a slowing down of hair growth during this time. Hairs that would usually have fallen out having reached the end of their natural cycle continue to grow whilst new ones that would have replaced them emerge. This is why most pregnant women's hair seems so much thicker than usual. This is a normal and healthy sign and as long as the expectant mother remains in good health, this abundance of hair continues to flourish until the baby is born.
Having given birth, or after a miscarriage or termination, a woman's hormone levels alter significantly. This hormonal disturbance results in an alteration to the natural cycle of hair growth. The excess hair, which was growing beyond its normal cycle, reverts to "Telogen hair" and begins to fall out. This can start as soon as one month after birth, but usually occurs three months later.
Occasionally, this process is speeded-up causing hair to fall out by the handful, which can be very distressing for a new mum. This is a natural process and will rectify itself in time, usually after a few months.
Breast-feeding your newborn can, in some cases, delay this hair loss process through the production of the milk-producing hormone, Prolactin.
It is important and reassuring to know that as fast as your old hair is falling out, new Anagen hair is growing in its place. This new head of hair will of course be shorter since it hasn't had time to grow but within a year it should be back to normal.
The Contraceptive Pill
The Pill does not seem to have too great an effect on hair growth. Coming off the Pill can cause a similar reaction to that occurring after childbirth, although usually not to the same extent. Hair loss will increase slightly up to three months after stopping, as you naturally begin a new hair growth cycle. Regular treatments will help to establish this new growth cycle more rapidly.
Adrenal Tumour
Adrenaline, the naturally produced fight or flight stimulant and testosterone are quite similar in their chemical make up. A tumor on the adrenal gland can effectively convert adrenaline into testosterone leading to results similar to those of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. In cases of severe hair loss a thorough medical examination is recommended to determine the cause and location of this excessive production of testosterone. This needs to happen before treatment can begin.
Hair Changes at the Menopause
Women of advancing age will commonly experience a thinning of their hair. It is part of a natural process but can be slowed down by maintaining a good level of fitness, a good diet and scalp circulation. Hormone Replacement Therapy or (HRT) has been highly effective in maintaining or improving hair growth in middle-aged women. There are side effects to consider, which can be discussed with your doctor before use.
Anaemia
Poor circulation, low blood pressure, a lack of iron and low ferritin levels can cause hair thinning from all parts of the scalp. The hair may become lighter and finer, more brittle and easily broken.
Blood tests and dietary supplements of Iron will normally solve the problem within a few months. If the circulation in the scalp is poor or the muscles in that area are too tense this can inhibit regrowth. Regular massage of the scalp will help.
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