For any woman, experiencing hair loss can be upsetting. It has a negative impact on one’s emotional health in addition to appearance. Although there are numerous reasons for significant hair loss or thinning hair, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one that is frequently disregarded. Women who experience inexplicable hair loss might not be aware that PCOS-induced hormonal imbalances are the cause of the issue.
Renowned cosmetic gynecologist and PCOS specialist Dr. Shraddha Goel stresses that women’s hair loss should never be disregarded. According to Dr. Goel, “if you notice more strands on your pillow or in the shower, or if your hair is thinning at the crown, it might be more than just stress—it could be hormonal.”
Let’s examine how PCOS affects hair loss, how to spot the symptoms, and management strategies.
Understanding PCOS: A Brief Overview
Women of reproductive age are susceptible to the hormonal condition known as polycystic ovary syndrome. It is distinguished by:
- Periods of menstruation that are irregular or absent
- Increased androgen (male hormone) levels
- Several tiny ovarian cysts that can be seen with ultrasonography
Numerous symptoms, including acne, weight gain, infertility, and—most importantly—hair loss, can result from these hormonal imbalances.
How PCOS Leads to Hair Loss
The Role of Androgens
Hyperandrogenism, or elevated levels of male hormones like testosterone, is one of the defining characteristics of PCOS. PCOS can dramatically increase the tiny amounts of androgens that women naturally generate.
These excessive androgens may:
- Reduce hair follicle size
- Shorten the duration of the hair cycle
- Cause female-pattern hair loss, also referred to as androgenic alopecia.
The Hair Loss Pattern
Hair loss in PCOS-afflicted women usually manifests as:
- Hair loss on the scalp’s top or crown
- An expansion of the part line
- Hair getting brittle and fine
- Noticeable loss of volume but no receding hairline (as in men)
Other forms of hair loss, such as telogen effluvium (caused by stress or malnutrition), exhibit a different pattern in which hair falls uniformly from all over the scalp.
Other Signs That PCOS Might Be the Cause
If you’re having hair loss, see if you’re also exhibiting any of these other PCOS symptoms:
- Missed or irregular periods
- Oily skin or acne
- Gaining weight or having trouble loosing it
- Overproduction of facial or body hair (hirsutism)
- Dark areas on the underarms or neck (acanthosis nigricans)
- Depression or mood swings
These symptoms should prompt a visit to a gynecologist for a hormonal evaluation, according to Dr. Shraddha Goel, who says that early identification is crucial.
Diagnosing PCOS-Related Hair Loss
Typically, a diagnosis includes:
1. Medical History & Physical Exam
Your doctor will inquire about your family history, menstrual cycle, and any indications of high testosterone, such as acne or unsuitable hair.
2. Hormonal Blood Tests
To determine the levels of:
- Testosterone
- DHEAS (Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate)
- LH and FSH (Luteinizing Hormone and Follicle Stimulating Hormone)
- TSH (Thyroid-stimulating hormone)
- Prolactin
3. Ultrasound
PCOS can be identified by a pelvic ultrasound that shows several little ovarian cysts.
Treatment Options: How to Stop Hair Loss from PCOS
1. Managing Hormonal Imbalances
Since hormones are the primary cause of hair loss in PCOS, controlling hormone levels is crucial.
- Oral contraceptives: Help in cycle regulation and androgen reduction.
- Anti-androgen medications: Spironolactone, for example, lessens the impact of testosterone on hair follicles.
- Insulin-sensitizing drugs: By treating insulin resistance, it can indirectly lower androgens, much like metformin.
By treating insulin resistance, it can indirectly lower androgens, much like metformin.
2. Topical Treatments for Hair Growth
- Minoxidil (2% or 5%): Applied straight onto the scalp to increase the density of hair.
- Serums and peptides: Reduce hair breakage and encourage hair follicles.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: In order to encourage hair restoration, growth factors from your own blood are injected into the scalp.
PRP for hair loss is one of the advanced aesthetic procedures offered by Dr. Shraddha Goel. It works especially well in conjunction with hormonal therapy.
Lifestyle Changes: The Natural Approach
1. Adopt a PCOS-Friendly Diet
- Give special attention to foods with a low glycemic index (GI), such as fruits, green vegetables, and whole grains.
- Steer clear of processed meals, sugar, and refined carbohydrates.
- Add omega-3 fatty acids, which promote hormonal balance and aid in the reduction of inflammation.
2. Exercise Regularly
- Five times a week, try to get in at least 30 minutes of exercise.
- Incorporate aerobics, yoga, and weight training to control insulin resistance and raise hormone levels.
3. Reduce Stress
Hormonal imbalances can be exacerbated by stress. Practice:
- Meditation
- Deep breathing
- Journaling
- Nature walks
4. Sleep Well
Getting at least 7 to 8 hours of good sleep promotes hair health and endocrine system regulation.
Hair Care Tips for Women with PCOS
- Steer clear of regular heat styling and harsh shampoos.
- Use light conditioners and shampoos that are gentle and free of sulfates.
- Avoid overtying your hair as this might lead to traction alopecia.
- Give your scalp regular massages to increase blood flow.
When to See a Specialist
If your hair loss is:
- Continued or getting worse
- Alongside other PCOS symptoms
- Not improving with over-the-counter medications
…it’s time to consult an expert.
With her background in gynecological and cosmetic procedures, Dr. Shraddha Goel provides a thorough and all-encompassing approach to treating PCOS and related hair loss. She makes sure that each lady receives individualized treatment, from hormonal assessments to specially designed aesthetic procedures.
Final Thoughts
PCOS-related hair loss is more than simply a cosmetic concern; it’s an indication that something is wrong with your body. Fortunately, this type of hair loss is manageable and even reversible with the correct diagnosis, medical assistance, and lifestyle modifications.
Don’t disregard the symptoms if you think PCOS might be the cause of your hair loss. Speak with an expert who is knowledgeable with the clinical and aesthetic aspects of this complicated illness, such as Dr. Shraddha Goel. Being conscious and taking action is the first step towards achieving your goals of feeling confident, healthy, and in charge of your well-being.
