Could Progesterone Be the Cause of My Hair Loss?
Age: 33, Weight: 215 lbs, Height: 5'6" Medical Conditions: Diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, PMDD, Endometriosis, and PCOS. Underwent a right thyroid lobectomy due to a benign, large dominant nodule. Current Medications: Taking 200 mg of Progesterone for two weeks on and two weeks off to help regulate menstrual cycles, 36 mg of Concerta for ADHD, and 750 mg of Metformin for PCOS (non-diabetic). I began my progesterone treatment 12 days ago, and it has been quite beneficial. I feel less fatigued during the latter part of my menstrual cycle, which is a positive change. However, I've also experienced significant hair shedding lately. While my hair looks fine in appearance, it seems to be falling out more than usual. I notice strands everywhere, and it's something I've never encountered before. Is this a common side effect? Should I be concerned about going bald in the future? I am grateful for the positive effects of progesterone, yet I'm anxious about potentially losing my hair, especially since my hair is very fine and soft. I have edited this to include additional information I previously overlooked.
Answers (1)
8/2/2025, 10:50:52 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about hair shedding, especially when you're experiencing positive effects from your progesterone treatment. Hair loss after starting new medications can occur, but it isn’t always related to the medication itself. Let’s break it down.
Main Points:
- Hair shedding can happen for various reasons, including hormonal changes, stress, or underlying health issues.
- Progesterone can influence hair growth, but it's not typically known to cause significant hair loss in most patients.
- Monitoring your situation and being aware of additional factors is crucial.
Explanation:
Progesterone contributes to the balance of hormones in your body, and while some individuals may experience changes in hair growth with hormonal therapies, significant hair loss is not a common documented side effect. However, your existing conditions like PCOS and the hormonal imbalances associated with it could lead to increased hair shedding. Stress, changes in routine, or other health changes can also contribute.
Given your experience of both positive effects and hair shedding, it's important to assess the situation closely.
Next Steps:
- Track your hair shedding: Keep a diary for the next few weeks, noting how much hair you're losing compared to normal, when it happens, and any other new symptoms you might observe.
- Focus on hair care: Use gentle, sulfate-free shampoos; avoid heat styling; and limit tight hairstyles that may stress your hair.
- Review your nutrition: Ensure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals, especially those important for hair health (like Biotin, Vitamin D, Iron). Consider a balanced diet or possible supplements if necessary.
- Manage stress: Engage in relaxation techniques or mindfulness to help mitigate stress that might contribute to hair shedding.
- Consider timing: Sometimes hair shedding has a delayed onset based on hormonal changes. Monitor how your hair responds over the next menstrual cycle.
- If shedding persists or worsens over the next month, consider discussing options with your healthcare provider to explore possible adjustments or additional treatments.
It's great to hear that you're experiencing benefits from your progesterone treatment. Keeping track of your symptoms will be beneficial in making informed decisions about your care. You're not alone in experiencing these concerns, and many options exist to support both hormonal health and hair vitality.
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