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Popular Birth Control Pill Linked to Hair Loss: Is It Yours?
by April Maguire
One of the most widespread forms of birth control, the pill offers easy family planning for millions of Americans. However, new research suggests that not all brands of birth control are created equal. In fact, a popular contraceptive pill called Loestrin has been linked to serious hair loss among its female users.
Understanding Androgenic Hair Loss
Hair loss can strike at any time, although it is most common in women aged 25 to 35 as well as those over 45. While hormonal events like menopause are often the cause of hair loss, the condition can also result from genetic factors, stressful circumstances and even consumption of certain medications. Recently, doctors have drawn a connection between androgen-based birth control pills and hair loss in women.
Although no double-blind studies have been conducted to date, many birth control pills list hair loss as a potential side effect. Further anecdotal evidence suggests that women on androgenic birth control pills like Loestrin suffer hair loss more frequently than their peers.
While some hair loss is normal and healthy, shedding more than 50 to 150 scalp hairs a day can suggest a medical problem. If your ponytail feels thinner than normal, or if you’re suffering from sudden balding in places, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor to find out if your birth control pill could be the cause.
More powerful forms of dihydrotestosterone, androgenic drugs like Loestrin offer patients a number of benefits including lighter periods, reduced cramping and minimal weight gain. However, androgens have also been linked to the thinning of hair follicles on the scalp. While many patients experience no negative side effects with Loestrin and its generic variations, women with a family history of androgenic alopecia may want to avoid taking this drug entirely to protect their hair health.
Finding the Right Birth Control for Your Needs
While thinning hair can be devastating, the good news is that women suffering from hair loss due to androgenic drugs can take steps to reverse the damage and regrow lost hair. If hair loss is severe, you may want to consider non-androgenic contraceptive pills such as Yaz and Ortho Tri-Cyclen. You can also ask your doctor about prescribing a testosterone blocker like spironolactone to enhance hair regrowth. Visit your doctor to discuss the best birth control options to meet your needs and remember that, no matter how bad it seems now, hair almost always grows back.
If you or someone you know would like to learn more about hair loss and how to treat it, please feel free to schedule a consultation or contact one of our representatives today!
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