Hair Loss: PCOS, Normal Shedding, and Male Pattern Baldness

Q: Hair Loss: PCOS, Normal Shedding, and Male Pattern Baldness

Hello： 1. <br>Normal hair loss and androgenetic alopecia appear similar, and it is not due to breakage in the middle of the hair shaft. <br>2. <br>If hair loss is solely caused by hormonal changes due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), once hormone levels return to normal, hair

Concern about hair?

Hello Doctor: I have been to the obstetrics and gynecology department for a check-up, and I have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Over the past six months, my menstrual flow has been lighter, and I have experienced increased hair loss.

1.
I would like to ask if the hair that falls out in "normal hair loss" and "androgenetic alopecia" looks the same at the tip? The hairs that I have lost have a small white bulb at the end.
Is this also the case for normally shed hair, or is this characteristic specific to androgenetic alopecia? I later found out that polycystic ovary syndrome can also cause hair loss due to elevated androgen levels in the body.
I am currently taking medication to lower my blood sugar (insulin medication).
2.
I would like to ask the doctor, if this is indeed the case, if treating the ovaries with medication successfully resolves the issue, will the hair follicles return to normal and hair will start to grow back? Thank you for your patience in reading and responding to my questions.
I appreciate your help!

Nickname, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2013/04/23

Dr. Li Yufen reply Dermatology

Hello: 1.
Normal hair loss and androgenetic alopecia appear similar, and it is not due to breakage in the middle of the hair shaft.
2.
If hair loss is solely caused by hormonal changes due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), once hormone levels return to normal, hair loss will initially decrease, and then several months later, hair follicles will re-enter the growth cycle, leading to new hair growth.
Thank you!

Reply Date: 2013/04/23

More Info

Understanding hair loss, particularly in the context of conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), normal shedding, and male pattern baldness, is crucial for effective management and treatment.
1. Normal Shedding vs. Male Pattern Baldness: Normal hair shedding is a part of the hair growth cycle. On average, individuals lose about 50 to 100 hairs per day, and this shedding is typically not noticeable. The hair that falls out during this process may have a small white bulb at the end, which is the hair's root. This is normal for both types of hair loss. In contrast, male pattern baldness (and female pattern hair loss) is characterized by a gradual thinning of hair, often leading to bald patches or a receding hairline. The hair that falls out due to male pattern baldness may not always have this white bulb, as the hair follicles shrink and produce thinner, weaker hair over time.

2. PCOS and Hair Loss: PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can lead to an imbalance of androgens (male hormones) in women. This hormonal imbalance can cause hair thinning on the scalp (androgenic alopecia) and increased hair growth in other areas of the body (hirsutism). The hair loss associated with PCOS can be diffuse, affecting the entire scalp, and may not follow the typical patterns seen in male pattern baldness.
3. Treatment and Recovery: If the hair loss is indeed linked to PCOS, treating the underlying hormonal imbalance can lead to improvements in hair growth. Medications that regulate insulin levels, such as metformin, can help manage PCOS symptoms. Additionally, hormonal treatments like birth control pills can help balance hormone levels and may reduce hair loss. If the hair follicles are still healthy, addressing the hormonal issues can allow them to re-enter the growth phase, leading to new hair growth over time. However, this process can take several months, and patience is essential.

4. Hair Follicle Health: The health of hair follicles is crucial for hair regrowth. If the follicles have been damaged due to prolonged hormonal imbalance, it may take longer for hair to regrow, or in some cases, they may not regrow at all. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider can help monitor the situation and adjust treatment as necessary.

5. Conclusion: In summary, understanding the differences between normal hair shedding and conditions like male pattern baldness or PCOS-related hair loss is vital for effective treatment. If you suspect that your hair loss is related to PCOS, it is essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses both the hormonal imbalance and the hair loss. With appropriate treatment, many individuals see improvements in their hair growth and overall hair health.

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