Why am I losing my hair?

Hair shedding is a normal part of the hair growth cycle but noticeable thinning or increased shedding can be concerning.

Hair loss can have many different causes and is not always related to hormones.

Understanding the pattern and timing of your hair loss can help identify what may be contributing.

Why do we lose hair?

Hair naturally moves through cycles of growth, rest and shedding. Losing some hair each day is normal.

Problems arise when more hairs than usual enter the shedding phase or when individual hairs become progressively thinner.

What can cause increased hair shedding?

Sudden or noticeable shedding can occur after illness, significant stress, weight loss, childbirth or some medications.

Iron deficiency, thyroid problems and nutritional deficiencies can also contribute to hair loss. In many cases the increased shedding improves once the underlying trigger has resolved.

What is female pattern hair loss?

Female pattern hair loss usually causes gradual thinning across the top of the scalp, often making the parting appear wider.

It is commonly influenced by genetics and, despite its name, most women with this condition have normal androgen levels.

Could hormones or PMOS be involved?

Hormonal factors can contribute to some types of hair loss. PMOS can be associated with scalp hair thinning, particularly when there are other signs of increased androgen activity.

However, hair loss can occur without PMOS and many other causes need to be considered.

When to see a doctor

If you notice persistent thinning, significant shedding, bald patches or a sudden change in your hair it is worth having it assessed.

Your doctor may examine your scalp and consider your medical history and, when appropriate, blood tests to look for underlying causes.

Key points

Some daily hair shedding is normal.
Hair loss can have many causes including genetics, illness, nutritional deficiencies and thyroid problems.
Female pattern hair loss usually causes gradual thinning across the scalp.
Hormonal conditions such as PMOS can contribute but are not the only cause.
Persistent or sudden hair loss should be assessed to identify the underlying cause.

Medically reviewed by Dr Susana Rodriguez, menopause clinician at ClaraSana Women’s Health, Perth.

Our content is based on up-to-date Australian guidelines & may differ from information on other sites.

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