Female Hair Loss

Hair loss in women is more common than many realize—and often more emotionally challenging. Unlike male pattern baldness, female hair loss typically presents as diffuse thinning across the scalp, making it harder to detect early. Causes range from hormonal imbalances and genetics to stress, nutritional deficiencies, and underlying medical conditions.

Whether it’s postpartum shedding, menopause-related thinning, or sudden patchy loss, understanding the root cause is essential. Explore the unique patterns, causes, and treatment options for female hair loss—and take the first step toward restoring your confidence.

Hair Loss Causes in Women

At City Clinics, we appreciate that some may find hair loss a rather traumatic experience. We understand the belittling effect it has on self-confidence, and that is why we aim to put a stop to it. Allow us to join you in this new chapter by assessing the causes of your specific hair loss. Together we can achieve what’s best for you.

As discussed in the ‘Male Hair Loss’ page, you may be aware that “androgenetic alopecia” is also identified as male-pattern baldness. However, this condition is also apparent in females and in particular, as they age. Though it is less predictable in women, there are distinct types of hair loss and, the following categories below show the various kinds.

Pregnancy

The duration of which a woman is pregnant, her body experiences many stresses and undergoes a lot of changes, particularly with the differences in hormone levels.

There is an increased level of oestrogen – a hormone responsible for hair growth in women. When pregnant, this hormone is in abundance and as such, hair growth will remain stable during this time.

However, post-pregnancy the hormones revert to as they were before, and this can also affect hair. As the oestrogen levels drop, the hair can shed up to 60% concurrently, which can be quite distressing.

Nonetheless, this change is generally only temporary, and the hair should start to grow after a few months, adjusting to normal, as hormone levels achieve their balance again.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

A hormonal disorder (also referred to as PCOS) that can affect 1 in 5 women in the UK. Sufferers of PCOS may suffer from increased levels of testosterone and possibly even DHT.

Menopause

Females encounter changes to both their hair and body during the stage of menopause. Naturally, women experience decreased levels of oestrogen as they age; this is an essential factor that causes the menopause. Despite the typical symptoms of mood swings and hot flushes, it is common to experience hair thinning, hair loss and a receding hairline.

Anaemia

One who produces decreased levels of haemoglobin or red blood cells is said to be anaemic, if there is also a lack of iron in the blood, this is known as iron deficiency anaemia. This type of anaemia can cause hair to thin and fall. Iron is a vital mineral that contributes to healthy hair growth. If you feel that this is of concern, please ensure to take a blood test to monitor the iron levels, as it is possible to notice an increase in hair growth as the levels return to normal.

Other Causes

If you feel your situation differs from the above, please do not hesitate to visit the clinic and book a free consultation with our doctors. We have only considered some of the common conditions that arise, and aware that there are other factors, do not be alarmed if yours does not match with the above. Seek your tailored self-assessment today, to receive the best package that works for you.

Speak with a member of the team, now, over the phone or online, via the WhatsApp link below. Our consultants look forward to answering any questions you may have.