Does Hair Fall Increase During Periods?
Yes, hair fall can increase during periods. This is primarily due to the drop in estrogen levels that occurs during menstruation. While most noticeable after pregnancy or menopause, this hormonal fluctuation can also affect hair shedding around your period.
Estrogen plays a crucial role in the hair growth cycle. A decrease in estrogen levels can disrupt this cycle, leading to increased hair shedding. This is not necessarily permanent hair loss, but rather an accelerated shedding of hairs that are already in the telogen (resting) phase of their growth cycle.
Other Factors
While hormonal changes are the primary reason, other factors can contribute to perceived increased hair loss during menstruation:
- Stress: Menstrual cycles can be accompanied by stress, which can also impact hair health.
- Diet: Nutritional deficiencies can exacerbate hair shedding.
- Styling practices: Tight hairstyles can pull and break hairs, making shedding appear more pronounced.
What to Do
If you experience significantly more hair loss than usual during your period, consult a doctor to rule out underlying medical conditions. However, a slight increase in hair shedding is often a normal response to hormonal fluctuations and typically resolves itself.
Sources:
- Viva Eve: The drop in estrogen levels that accompany a period can lead to hair loss. https://vivaeve.com/5-ways-your-period-can-affect-your-hair-and-skin/
- Monpure: During menstruation, the sudden drop in oestrogen can cause the hair to enter... https://monpure.com/blogs/news/how-your-period-affects-your-scalp-and-hair
