Menopause wreaks enough havoc in a woman’s life. Along with hot flashes, vaginal dryness, night sweats and other menopause-related symptoms, many women must deal with significant hair loss at this time. Huge amounts of hair in the shower, sink or brush can trigger depression and other negative emotions.
While different styling or wigs can help hide evidence of hair loss, there is another alternative. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can slow or prevent hair loss, allowing you to keep more of your crowning glory. If you want to know more about what causes hair loss during menopause, or how bioidentical hormone replacement therapy can help, consult an experienced doctor who can help.
Hair loss in menopause results from hormonal imbalance. Estrogen and progesterone both aid in hair growth and keep excessive shedding at bay. After menopause, these hormones decline precipitously. Androgens, classically male hormones, ramp up after these female hormones lessen. The head’s hair follicles shrink, and in some cases, menopausal women develop facial hair.
Androgens, classically male hormones, ramp up after these female hormones lessen. The head’s hair follicles shrink, and in some cases, menopausal women develop facial hair.
Unlike men, women do not usually go completely bald, but hair can thin considerably. The result is often bald patches, especially on the top of the scalp. While genetic male pattern baldness is better known, female pattern baldness affects a large percentage of older women.
The condition is formally known as androgenic alopecia. Hair is lost primarily at the temples and sides of the head. The part may widen considerably.
While menopause triggers hair loss, it is not the only cause of thinning hair in older women. Stress, poor diet and thyroid disorders can also result in hair loss. A doctor can conduct blood, saliva and urine tests along with taking a medical history to unearth all potential hair loss causes.
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy helps retain a full head of hair. These hormones, derived from plant sources, are biologically identical to the hormones your body created prior to menopause. Not only will your hair become thicker and “normal,” but bioidentical hormone replacement therapy relieves other menopausal symptoms, including:
Therapy is custom-tailored to each patient. Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy involves a holistic approach, so the doctor will also recommend a diet and exercise regimen and possible nutritional supplements to improve overall health. Hair health always reflects your body’s general health.
If you are experiencing hair loss or any other menopausal symptoms and would like to know more about bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, call Dr. Edward Jacobson’s office today and arrange a consultation.