Many women notice increased hair shedding before, during, or after their menstrual period. While mild hair loss can be part of the natural hair growth cycle, hormonal fluctuations associated with menstruation can sometimes amplify this effect. Understanding why this happens can help you manage it more effectively.

1. Hormonal Fluctuations and the Hair Growth Cycle

The menstrual cycle is primarily driven by fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone. These hormones do more than regulate reproduction — they also influence skin, mood, and hair growth.

During the follicular phase (the first half of the cycle), estrogen levels rise, promoting thicker and shinier hair by extending the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle. However, after ovulation, estrogen levels drop, and progesterone rises. As progesterone and estrogen decline right before menstruation, hair follicles can enter the telogen (resting) phase, leading to temporary shedding.

This mild shedding is often cyclical and self-limiting, returning to normal once hormone levels stabilize.

2. Iron Deficiency and Heavy Periods

One of the most overlooked causes of hair loss related to menstruation is iron deficiency anemia, particularly among women with heavy menstrual bleeding.

Iron is crucial for oxygen delivery to hair follicles. When blood loss exceeds the body’s ability to replace it, ferritin levels— a measure of stored iron — drop, which can cause hair thinning and excessive shedding.

If you often experience fatigue, dizziness, or pale skin along with hair loss, it’s worth checking your ferritin and hemoglobin levels with a doctor.

3. Stress, Hormones, and Telogen Effluvium

Menstrual-related stress or hormonal imbalances can also trigger a condition known as telogen effluvium — a type of temporary hair loss that occurs when more hair follicles than usual shift into the resting phase.

Emotional or physical stress — including premenstrual symptoms (PMS), poor sleep, or nutritional deficiencies — can all contribute to this condition. While telogen effluvium is reversible, it may take several months for normal growth to resume.

4. Other Hormonal Conditions

In some cases, hair loss around menstruation may indicate an underlying hormonal disorder. For instance, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can cause irregular periods and higher levels of androgens (male hormones), leading to hair thinning on the scalp and excess hair on the face or body.

If hair loss is persistent or accompanied by irregular cycles, acne, or weight changes, medical evaluation is recommended.

5. Managing Menstrual-Related Hair Loss

• Eat iron-rich foods: Include red meat, spinach, lentils, and fortified cereals.

• Take care of your scalp: Use gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and avoid excessive heat styling.

• Manage stress: Practice yoga, meditation, or light exercise to balance hormones.

• Monitor your cycle: Track symptoms to identify patterns and consult your doctor if shedding worsens.

Conclusion

Menstrual-related hair loss is usually temporary and linked to natural hormonal changes. However, if shedding is excessive, prolonged, or accompanied by other symptoms, it may point to nutrient deficiencies or hormonal imbalances that require medical attention. With the right nutrition, care, and awareness, most women can restore their hair health and confidence.

References:

• Azziz, R., Carmina, E., Chen, Z., Dunaif, A., Laven, J. S. E., Legro, R. S., & Lizneva, D. (2016). Polycystic ovary syndrome. Nature Reviews Disease Primers, 2, 16057.

• Headington, J. T. (1993). Telogen effluvium: New concepts and review. Archives of Dermatology, 129(3), 356–363.

• Olsen, E. A. (2011). Female pattern hair loss. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 65(6), 1189–1202.

• Randall, V. A. (2008). Hormonal regulation of hair follicles exhibits a biological paradox. Seminars in Cell & Developmental Biology, 19(3), 261–269.

• Trost, L. B., Bergfeld, W. F., & Calogeras, E. (2006). The diagnosis and treatment of iron deficiency and its potential relationship to hair loss. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 54(5), 824–844.