My hair is getting thinner, and I’m noticing more shedding. Can this be a part of perimenopause or menopause?

We Answered

Clear information for the question you asked.

You may notice more hair in the shower, on your brush, or around the bathroom. Maybe your ponytail feels thinner, your part looks wider, or your hair simply doesn’t have the fullness it once did.

If this is happening during perimenopause or menopause, it’s reasonable to wonder whether hormonal changes could be playing a role.

The short answer: Yes, they can.

Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can affect the hair-growth cycle. As estrogen levels fluctuate and decline, some women may notice increased shedding, slower hair growth, changes in texture, or gradual thinning.

Estrogen helps support the hair-growth phase. As hormone levels change, the amount of time hair spends in different stages of its growth cycle can change as well.

Shedding and thinning aren’t necessarily the same thing

We naturally shed hair every day. Increased shedding means you’re noticing more hair coming out than what is typical for you—perhaps while washing, brushing, combing, or styling your hair.

Hair thinning may be more gradual. You might notice less overall volume, a wider part, more visible scalp, or a thinner ponytail.

Sudden hair loss or distinct bald or patchy areas are different and deserve medical evaluation.

Is menopause always the reason?

No. Although hormonal changes may contribute, there are many other possible causes of increased shedding or thinning hair.

Stress, thyroid conditions, iron or other nutritional deficiencies, illness, certain medications, genetics, scalp conditions, tight hairstyles, and chemical or heat damage can all affect the hair.

That’s why it’s important not to assume that every hair change during midlife is simply menopause.

What can I do?

Pay attention to what you’re experiencing. When did the change begin? Was it gradual or sudden? Is the thinning occurring all over or mainly in one area? Have you noticed any changes to your scalp?

Be gentle with your hair and scalp, limit excessive heat and harsh chemical treatments, and be mindful of hairstyles that repeatedly pull on the hair.

A balanced diet that provides adequate protein and essential nutrients is also important. Before starting supplements specifically for hair loss, consider discussing your concerns with your healthcare provider. If a deficiency or another underlying issue is contributing, identifying the cause can help guide the appropriate treatment.

If your hair loss is sudden, significant, occurring in patches, or accompanied by scalp pain, itching, redness, or other concerning symptoms, talk with your healthcare provider or a dermatologist.

The YAWA Takeaway

Hair thinning and increased shedding can occur during perimenopause and menopause, and hormonal changes may be one contributing factor. But menopause isn’t the only possible cause.

If you notice a meaningful change in your hair, bring it up with your healthcare provider. Understanding why it’s happening is an important first step toward deciding what to do next.

Because sometimes the first clue that something is changing isn’t a hot flash—it’s the hair in your brush.