What Causes Hairloss in Women?

Hair loss is often easier to spot in men than in women, yet many women experience hair loss at some point in their lives. According to familydoctor.org, the normal cycle of hair growth lasts for two to six years, and some hair loss is normal. But a dramatic and abnormal loss of hair is usually a byproduct of hormonal changes, medical treatments, poor nutrition or infections.

Post-pregnancy

• During pregnancy, women have a high level of hormones that cause retention of hair that would normally fall out; therefore, most pregnant women have a thicker head of hair than they did before the pregnancy. Usually about three to four months after giving birth, women start to lose more hair than normal. This happens because the pre-pregnancy hormone levels return and the normal cycle of hair loss and growth starts again, according to familydoctor.org.

Birth Control Pills

• Birth control pills, like pregnancy, change the hormones in a woman's body. According to the Mayo Clinic, both taking and discontinuing the use of birth control pills may cause hair loss. Women who are predisposed to hair loss may see hair loss either right after starting a birth control pill or shortly after discontinuing its use.

Medical Treatments

• When a woman undergoes chemotherapy or radiation treatment to fight the body's rapidly dividing cancer cells, other cells---including those in hair follicles---are affected, according to Americanhairloss.org. Hair loss from chemotherapy often occurs not only on the scalp but also on and above the eyes (eyebrows and eyelashes) and the armpits. Many women are self-conscious about this total hair loss and choose to cover their heads with scarves and wigs during their cancer treatment.

Infections

• Infections often cause hair loss. Specifically, fungal infections on the scalp, such as ringworm, can contribute to hair loss. Most infections are easily treated, and the hair will grow back soon after treatment. Over-the-counter antifungal topical treatments often clear up fungal infections within a few days.

Poor Nutrition

• Getting the proper amount of nutrients is essential for many different functions of the body. Hair loss is often associated with poor nutrition. When the body does not receive the right amount of protein or iron, hair loss can occur, according to the Mayo Clinic. Also, crash diets and eating disorders, such as anorexia, can cause hair loss. Eating a well-balanced diet and taking vitamin supplements can help you prevent hair loss.