If you’re noticing more hair in your brush or a widening part, and you also have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), you’re likely wondering if the two are connected. The frustrating answer is yes, PCOS is a common culprit behind female hair loss. It can feel like a double blow, dealing with the other symptoms of the condition and then seeing changes in your hair.
But it’s important to know you’re not alone, and this type of hair loss, while distressing, is often manageable once you understand what’s happening inside your body. The key lies in the hormonal imbalances that define PCOS.
The Hormonal Link Behind PCOS and Hair Thinning
PCOS causes an overproduction of hormones called androgens, which are often thought of as “male hormones,” though all women have them. High levels of androgens can shrink your hair follicles, leading to a type of hair loss known as androgenetic alopecia. This results in hair thinning, primarily on the top and front of the scalp, while the hairline typically remains intact.
Other PCOS Symptoms That Affect Your Hair
Hair loss rarely happens in isolation with PCOS. The same hormonal imbalance that causes thinning hair can also lead to hirsutism, which is excess hair growth on the face, chin, and body. It feels contradictory, but it’s the same root cause: androgens making body hair grow coarser while causing scalp hair to thin. Insulin resistance, another common feature of PCOS, can further worsen these hormonal issues.
Steps You Can Take to Manage Hair Loss
While it can feel overwhelming, there are effective ways to address this concern. The first and most important step is to speak with your doctor. They can confirm that PCOS is the cause and help you create a holistic plan.
This plan might include lifestyle changes that target the core of PCOS. A balanced diet and regular exercise can improve insulin sensitivity, which in turn can help balance your androgen levels. Your doctor may also suggest specific treatments, such as medications to block androgens or topical treatments like minoxidil to encourage hair growth.
Caring for Your Hair and Your Confidence
While you work on the internal factors, be gentle with your hair. Avoid tight hairstyles, high-heat styling, and harsh chemical treatments that can cause more breakage. Using a volumizing shampoo and conditioner can help hair appear fuller. Most importantly, be patient with yourself and your body. Managing PCOS is a journey, and addressing hair loss is one part of reclaiming your sense of well-being.
Hair loss from PCOS is a real and valid concern, but it doesn’t have to be permanent. By focusing on managing your overall hormonal health with medical guidance, you can take positive steps toward improving the health of your hair and your confidence.