Yes, heavy periods can potentially cause hair loss.
Heavy menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia, involves increased blood loss compared to a typical period. This significant blood loss can have a direct impact on the body's iron levels.
The Link: Heavy Periods and Iron Deficiency
According to information from April 9, 2021, increased blood loss during heavy periods can lead to iron deficiency anaemia. Iron is crucial for many bodily functions, including cell growth, and low levels can affect hair follicle health.
When the body doesn't have enough iron, it can't produce sufficient haemoglobin, which carries oxygen to cells, including those in hair follicles. This lack of oxygen and nutrients can disrupt the hair growth cycle, potentially leading to excessive shedding and thinning hair.
Therefore, iron deficiency, which can result from heavy periods, can subsequently contribute to hair loss.
What You Can Do
If you experience heavy periods and are concerned about hair loss, it is important to seek medical advice. As noted in the reference, it's important to contact your doctor if you feel that this may be happening to you as it is treatable with medication.
- Consult Your Doctor: Discuss your heavy periods and hair loss with a healthcare professional. They can assess your iron levels and overall health.
- Treatment Options: Iron deficiency anaemia is often treatable. Treatment typically involves iron supplements to replenish your body's iron stores. Addressing the underlying cause of heavy periods may also be part of the treatment plan.
Managing the heavy bleeding and correcting the iron deficiency are key steps that can help improve hair health and promote regrowth.
