Menopause typically occurs during the early 50s. It marks the end of fertility and menstruation. During menopause, the ovaries begin to make fewer amounts of progesterone and estrogen, the hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle. Because of this hormone fluctuation, the body begins to exhibit unpleasant changes such as hot flashes, mood swings and female pattern baldness. Hair loss during menopause can be traumatic and embarrassing. However, becoming educated can make it more treatable.
Symptoms
In female pattern baldness during menopause, hair mostly thins on the crown and top of the head. The U.S. National Library of Medicine explains that it typically begins with a widening of the center part. Unlike in males, the front hairline does not recede, and total hair loss is not common. Once hair sheds normally, the hair that regrows is shorter and finer. Eventually the new hair will resemble peach-like fuzz.
Causes
According to the Mayo Clinic, the length of time that hair grows can shorten during menopause. With each growth cycle, hair becomes thinner and more likely to fall out because of hormone fluctuations. Heredity also plays a large part in hair loss. If there is a history of the medical condition androgenetic alopecia in the family, a woman is more likely to experience balding during menopause. In addition, heredity determines the speed, pattern and extent of hair loss. Over-styling or processing hair also can result in hair loss.
Treatment
The U.S. National Library of Medicine states that there are various treatments for hair loss during menopause. Minoxidil is the only topical prescription medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for female hair loss. About 20 percent of women experience hair regrowth with this treatment. The oral drug spironolactone can be added to control the production of androgen hormones. Medication is not the only treatment option. Many women experience positive results from hair transplants, weaves, hairpieces or a new hairstyle.
Coping
Because hair loss can be upsetting, the Mayo Clinic suggests learning coping strategies. A woman should consult a doctor to find out all of her treatment options. She should avoid alternative treatments that could be dangerous or have negative side effects. There are many support groups that offer comfort and additional information on hair loss. Women might find it reassuring to be surrounded by others experiencing similar challenges.
When to Contact a Doctor
If hair loss is accompanied by irritation, inflammation or itching, the U.S. National Library of Medicine recommends consulting a health-care provider. These symptoms might be the sign of a treatable medical condition such as alopecia areata, syphilis, lupus, tumors of the ovary, thyroid disease or tinea capitis.
