HIGHLIGHTS
- Birth Control and Hair Loss:
- Contraceptive drugs containing levonorgestrel and other high androgen index progestins can lead to hair loss due to their similarity to testosterone.
- Types of Progestins:
- High androgen index progestins like medroxyprogesterone acetate, levonorgestrel, norgestrel, and etonogestrel can shrink hair follicles, causing gradual hair loss.
- Low androgen index progestins like drospirenone, norgestimate, and cyproterone don't cause hair loss during usage but may trigger it upon discontinuation due to a rebound surge in androgens.
- Role of Ovulation:
- Estrogen and progesterone, crucial for hair health, are produced through ovulation and a natural menstrual cycle, underscoring the importance of ceasing hormonal birth control.
- PCOS Consideration:
- PCOS, characterized by high androgens, can contribute to hair loss, acne, and hirsutism; blood tests can aid in diagnosis.
- Thyroid and Hair Loss:
- Thyroid disease is another potential cause of hair loss, necessitating blood tests, especially for those with symptoms or family history.
- Importance of Nutrients (Iron, Zinc, Iodine):
- Adequate iron levels are essential for hair recovery; there is a lot more to iron sttus than ferritin. Rarely is an iron infusion appropriate.
- Zinc promotes ovulation, reduces inflammation, and inhibits androgens, making it beneficial for hair health, especially for those with deficiencies or on hormonal birth control.
- Addressing Inflammation:
- Chronic inflammation can sensitize hair follicles to androgens, exacerbating hair loss; resolving gut issues or food sensitivities may help alleviate inflammation.
- Patience in Treatment:
- Results from hair loss treatment may take at least two months due to the lag time in the hair's telogen phase; consistency and patience are crucial for seeing improvements.
LINKS
- Are we instagram friends yet? @solainedouglas_nutrition
- Want to work with me on your PCOS? Step 1 – PCOS GlowUp: Easy 3 week program to help you get on top of your PCOS symptoms: https://solainedouglas.com/pcos-glowup
