Coping With Hair Thinning After Stopping Birth Control: Tips and Tricks
Many women report experiencing hair thinning after they stop taking birth control pills.
Doctors usually prescribe birth control pills to prevent pregnancy, regulate menstrual cycles, and treat some gynecological conditions.
While these pills effectively treat those conditions, some women may experience hair loss as a side effect.
Hair thinning, in general, is a common problem faced by around 25% of women by age 50.
This can be alarming, but it is important to understand why hair thinning after stopping birth control happens and what you can do about it.
How do birth control pills cause hair loss
You may experience hair thinning for several reasons after you stop taking birth control.
Hormones
The hormones in birth control pills can have a significant impact on your hair growth cycle.
Estrogen, for example, can prolong the Anagen phase of hair growth, which is the active phase, during which hair grows longer and thicker.
Progesterone, on the other hand, can shorten the Anagen phase, causing hair to enter the Telogen phase, during which hair falls out.
When you stop taking birth control pills, the levels of these hormones fluctuate, causing changes in your hair growth cycle.
This can result in significant hair shedding and thinning.
Additionally, birth control pills can also affect the levels of other hormones in your body, such as Androgens.
They are male hormones but are also present in women and can contribute to hair loss when present at high levels.
Some birth control pills can actually reduce the levels of androgens in your body, which can help prevent hair loss.
When you stop taking these pills, the androgen levels can increase, leading to hair thinning.
Stress
Finally, stress can also factor in hair thinning after stopping the birth control pills.
Many women experience anxiety and stress when they stop taking pills.
This is either because they are worried about fertility or because they are experiencing the side effects of the transition.
This stress can further disrupt the hair growth cycle by pushing follicles into a Telogen phase, leading to hair loss or thinning.
How long does hair loss last after stopping birth control
It is worth noting that hair thinning after stopping birth control is temporary.
The hair loss you are experiencing should stop in around six months.
It is common to experience severe hair loss immediately after stopping birth control.
As mentioned above, this hair loss condition is usually caused by Telogen Effluvium, which is caused by several factors, including hormonal imbalance.
With time your hormones return to their normal levels, and hair starts to grow back soon after.
Ways to prevent hair loss after stopping birth control
If you are experiencing hair thinning after stopping birth control, there are a few things you can do to help promote healthy hair growth.
Taking care of your hair
Ensure you take good care of your hair, especially when you start taking certain medications.
Use gentle shampoo and conditioner that are designed for your hair type.
Avoid using harsh chemicals and heat styling tools on your hair to avoid hair breakage.
You can also consider taking hair growth supplements or oral treatments containing Minoxidil or Biotin.
Taking care of your health
After stopping birth control, your stress levels may increase, triggering Telogen Effluvium.
Try to manage your stress levels as much as possible.
This may involve practicing relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, regular exercise, or talking to a therapist.
Include nutrients in your daily diet to promote healthy hair growth.
Talk with your doctor about your hair thinning and ask if any medical treatments are available.
Takeaway
In conclusion, hair thinning after stopping birth control is a common side effect that can be frustrating and distressing.
Understanding the causes of this issue and taking steps to promote healthy hair growth can help you get through this transition period and feel confident.
However, suppose you are still experiencing hair loss or thinning after several months.
In that case, you should consult your doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions that could be causing the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can quitting birth control cause hair loss?
Yes. Some women can experience hair loss after they quit taking birth control pills. Birth control contains hormones like Androgens. After you stop taking pills, your hormone levels may fluctuate, causing hormonal changes in your body. This hormonal imbalance can trigger a hair loss condition called Telogen Effluvium.
How long does hair loss last after stopping birth control?
Hair loss after stopping birth control tablets is only temporary. Once you stop taking birth control, your hair should grow back in roughly six months. If you are still experiencing hair thinning, talk to your doctor to determine the right cause of your hair problem.
Will my hair grow back after stopping birth control?
Yes. Hair thinning after you stop taking birth control is temporary. It is usually caused by hair entering the resting phase prematurely and falling out. Once your hormonal levels return to normal or your stress reduces, hair starts to regrow back.
How do you stop hair loss after going off birth control?
You must take good care of yourself and your hair to maintain healthy growth. Try using gentle shampoos and conditioners to avoid any hair breakage and damage. You might experience anxiety and stress after stopping birth control. Practice some relaxation techniques, such as yoga, meditation, and regular exercise.
Does birth control make hair healthier?
Not everyone experiences hair loss from birth control. Some pills contain synthetic Estrogen that can help accelerate hair growth and contribute to healthier hair. Estrogen keeps hair in the growing phase for more extended periods.
