I am 55years old and I have found over the last few years that I am losing quite a lot of hair. I supposed that it was thinning with age, but it appears to be getting worse. Is this part of the menopausal process and if so when will it stop?

Thank You,

J. Richardson

Answer:

Most people naturally experience some hair loss as they get older. But age, changing hormones and heredity cause some to lose more hair than others. The most common cause of hair loss is low thyroid function, which is common among menopausal women due to lower estrogen and progesterone levels. The decline in estrogen and progesterone is a direct result from a lack of ovulation. As estrogen and progesterone levels lower, the body makes up for it by increasing its production of another hormone called androstenedione, which has many male (or androgenous) effects on the female body.

If your hair loss is simply a matter of hormone levels, your estrogen and progesterone levels can be raised by taking natural estrogen and progesterone supplements. As your estrogen and progesterone increases due to the supplements, the androstenedione level will return to normal and your hair will likely grow back within 6-months.  

If you have suddenly experienced rapid hair loss, most health professionals recommend evaluating what went on in your life within the last few months. Any of the following factors can cause sudden hair loss:

• Hormone Levels – a decrease in female hormones estrogen and progesterone cause an increase in androstenedione due to menopause or thyroid problems.
• Increased Stress – due to work, family life or a sudden death or traumatic experience.
• New Medications – a new medication can sometimes have harmful side effects on the body.
• Heredity - female pattern baldness is inherited and causes hair loss in women between the ages of 25 and 30.

If you believe your hair loss is due to menopause and are looking for a natural treatment, ask your doctor about soy isoflavones, which are reported to have an effect similar to estrogen and progesterone on the body.