Introduction
In today's world, numerous women experience hair loss at various stages of their lives. While this phenomenon can occur naturally due to aging, it may also stem from certain medical conditions, such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). This syndrome affects countless women globally, leading to hormonal imbalances that disrupt various bodily functions and result in symptoms like acne, hair loss, excessive body hair growth, and irregular menstrual cycles, among others.
Research indicates that approximately 20% of women worldwide are affected by PCOS, with hair loss being one of the most prevalent issues associated with this condition.
In this article, we will explore what PCOS is, the mechanism by which it causes hair loss, the symptoms associated with PCOS-related hair loss, available treatment options, and address some common questions.
What is PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is characterized by the ovaries producing an excess of androgen hormones. These hormones play a crucial role during puberty and trigger hair growth in areas such as the pubic region and underarms.
Although many people with PCOS develop cysts on their ovaries, it's important to note that cysts can occur without the presence of PCOS symptoms as well. Cysts generally form when an egg fails to mature and is released during ovulation. Consequently, these cysts produce an overabundance of androgens, leading to a variety of symptoms, which may include:
❖ Acne
❖ Weight gain
❖ Excessive body hair growth
❖ Infertility
❖ Dark patches on the skin
❖ Irregular menstrual cycles
❖ Increased oil production on the skin
What Causes Hair Loss in PCOS?
Hair loss can be attributed to a multitude of factors, including high fever, inadequate nutrition, emotional stress, specific medications, and various medical conditions. However, in women with PCOS, the elevated levels of androgen hormones are the primary culprits behind hair loss. The main androgen hormones involved are testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and androstenedione, with a particular emphasis on testosterone and DHT in the context of this syndrome.
Both males and females produce androgen hormones, which means that both sexes can experience androgenetic alopecia. Nonetheless, the production and regulation of these hormones differ significantly between men and women. In men, testosterone is primarily produced in the testes, while women derive their androgens from the ovaries and adrenal glands.
Since these hormones are predominantly male hormones that contribute to male characteristics, men typically produce higher levels of testosterone than women. Moreover, men possess a greater number of chemical receptors in their tissues that respond to these hormones compared to women.
Interestingly, women exhibit a higher sensitivity to these hormones than men do. This heightened sensitivity means that even slight increases in androgen levels can trigger symptoms of hyperandrogenism, including hirsutism, acne, and notably, alopecia.
Let’s take a deeper dive into the role of one such hormone in the context of alopecia.
The Role of Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
Typically, free testosterone circulating in the bloodstream is converted into DHT, which then promotes hair follicle activity to stimulate hair growth. However, this is not always the case.
Androgens exert varied effects on hair follicles. In certain areas, such as the beard, armpits, and pubic regions, they encourage hair growth, while in other regions, particularly the scalp, they can hinder it. This phenomenon is especially noticeable in genetically predisposed individuals.
In these vulnerable individuals, the scalp hair follicles may become overly sensitive to testosterone, and elevated levels can lead to hair loss. Although the exact mechanisms behind this sensitivity remain somewhat elusive, it has been observed that the response of scalp hair follicles to increased androgen levels is largely genetically determined.
Women with a familial history of alopecia are at an increased risk of experiencing similar hair loss.
Symptoms of PCOS-Induced Hair Loss
PCOS may manifest in consistent hair shedding, where you may notice more hair on your comb, clothing, or furniture than usual. You might even find that your pillowcase collects hair while you sleep, or you may notice clumps of hair while showering.
It’s important to recognize that occasional hair shedding is not inherently indicative of PCOS-related hair loss; however, it becomes a concern when you experience frequent, significant clumps of hair loss.
Additionally, PCOS hair loss may involve hair loss from the root, including the hair follicles themselves. You might wake up one day to discover a significant section of your hair has fallen out, along with the follicles. Furthermore, since PCOS leads to very dry hair, you might observe breakage due to brushing or heat exposure, making the scalp more visible at the crown and hairline while resulting in frizz from the broken strands.
Moreover, PCOS may also contribute to an itchy and dry scalp. Some individuals with PCOS report experiencing dandruff and buildup, leading to finer hair that becomes challenging to style without an array of hair products.
Generally, hair loss associated with PCOS predominantly occurs in the frontal-parietal region, with noticeable thinning in the center.
The Ludwig scale outlines three stages of hair loss in women:
❖ Small patches of hair loss with fragile, thin hairs interspersed among healthy strands.
❖ Visible bald patches accompanied by numerous thin hairs.
❖ Hair that appears fuzzy and nearly invisible.
Treatment Options for PCOS-Induced Hair Loss
Identifying PCOS early can help prevent further hair loss and enhance treatment efficacy. Therefore, if you notice consistent symptoms related to PCOS, it is crucial to seek medical assistance promptly. This proactive approach is essential for maintaining your health and mitigating symptoms.
The positive aspect of PCOS is that it is a lifestyle-related condition that can be effectively managed through healthy living. For those experiencing hair loss due to PCOS, consider exploring the following options to help restore your hair to its fuller, healthier state.
1. Seek Medical Guidance
If PCOS is identified early, hair treatment and lifestyle modifications (which we will discuss further) may suffice for effective management. However, if you find yourself losing large amounts of hair consistently, it is vital to consult a healthcare professional.
Medical practitioners will conduct various tests, including hormonal assessments and ultrasounds, to gather an understanding of your specific situation. They will also evaluate levels of essential
