Hair loss and peri menopause
Hair loss during perimenopause is a common concern for many women, as hormonal changes in this transitional phase can affect hair health.
Peri menopause is the stage before menopause when the body gradually produces less estrogen and progesterone, leading to several physical changes, including changes in hair growth patterns.
Here's how these hormonal shifts affect hair loss:
1. Hormonal Imbalance
Estrogen: This hormone helps maintain hair growth and its fullness. As estrogen levels decline during perimenopause, hair may thin or fall out more easily.
Androgens: A change in male hormones (like testosterone) can lead to thinning hair, particularly on the scalp. These hormones may also trigger hair growth in areas like the chin or upper lip.
2. Stress and Lifestyle Factors
Perimenopause often comes with increased stress due to hormonal fluctuations, which can exacerbate hair loss. Additionally, factors such as poor diet, lack of sleep, and stress can worsen hair health.
Stress can also trigger telogen effluvium, a temporary form of hair loss where hair prematurely enters the resting phase and falls out.
3. Thyroid Imbalance
Thyroid conditions, which are more common during midlife, can also contribute to hair thinning or loss.
4. Nutritional Deficiencies
Changes in nutritional needs during perimenopause can affect hair health. Deficiencies in iron, vitamin D, and B-vitamins can contribute to hair loss.
Tips for Managing Hair Loss during Perimenopause:
Balanced Diet and supplements: Ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals such as biotin, zinc, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Hair Care Routine: Use gentle hair care products and avoid excessive heat styling or harsh chemicals.
Stress Management: Mindfulness, yoga, or relaxation techniques can help mitigate stress-related hair loss.
Consulting a hair specialist.
If you are concerned with how your body is coping with the hormonal changes during peri menopause and post menopause, book in a session with me. We can spend time going through a tailored approach to assist you through this transition.
