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Menopause & Thinning Hair

Menopause is the time in a woman's life when she no longer has her monthly period. As this happens, the hormones in her body change and lead to symptoms such as thinning hair.

  1. Reduced Estrogen

    • Women go through menopause, sometimes called "the change of life" between the ages of about 40 and 60. When you begin menopause, your ovaries produce less of the female hormone estrogen.

    Estrogen Affects Hair Growth

    • Estrogen is responsible for the following female characteristics: less body hair, shorter stature, breast enlargement, reduced muscle mass. It also promotes hair growth on the head. You may notice thinning hair as estrogen leaves your body.

    Estrogen Replacement

    • Replacing the estrogen that is lost during menopause can reduce the symptom of thinning hair, but hormone replacement therapy can have side effects. There are natural ways to replace estrogen and possibly decrease thinning hair.

    Phytoestrogens

    • Phytoestrogens are natural estrogens found in foods such as soy, vegetables, legumes, cereals and herbs and may help with menopausal symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic.

    Lifestyle Changes

    • To minimize the effects of hair loss, reduce the amount of stress in your life. Eat a healthy diet and take the vitamins you need. See your doctor and have a full checkup. Consider taking an FDA approved treatment to promote hair growth.

    Other Reasons for Thinning Hair

    • Menopause is not the only cause of hair loss. Some other reasons your hair might be thinning during this time include stress, tight hairstyles, hair dyes and perms, poor nutrition, medication, diabetes or thyroid disorders.

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