Hair loss in females is much more common than one might think. Female pattern hair loss is often referred to as female pattern alopecia. The hair loss may often be only partial much like that seen in male pattern baldness. Female pattern hair loss is most often seen after women reach menopause and may affect up to one third of women prone to this disorder. The thinning tends to be gradual in onset. Genetically the hair loss can come from either side of the family.

Hair loss in women usually begins with a gradual loss of hair. The lost hair is then replaced by hairs that are shorter and shorter until it becomes difficult to see them because they are either so thin or gone altogether. This type of hair loss usually happens on the front and top of the head. Women who experience this type of hair loss can be drastically affected.

Though the hair loss occurs most commonly after menopause, you can have hair loss after pregnancy or following the discontinuation of birth control pills and it may occur as early as puberty. There are even cases in which female pattern hair loss can occur in relation to illness or severe psychological stress. The hair loss related to illness or stress may be temporary and hair growth may return without intervention. However, this can take some time to happen.

Hair loss in females is typically treated by regular topical application of Rogaine (minoxidil), the only FDA approved medication currently available for women. Among other medications, Propecia is reported to be ineffective for women, and Aldactone is more effective for hair loss starting in premenopausal women. In addion, Aldactone also takes a long time course before effects are seen. For postmenopausal women, some hormone replacement pills have been shown to be effective. Lastly, hair transplantation is also available for some women.

In attempting to minimize the effects of hair loss, one ought to first investigate the different options available. The quality of hair additions and wigs has been improving, although these methods are not necessarily guaranteed to improve a woman's appearance. Other options that seek to make hair loss less noticeable include treatment, which does not always work, as well as cosmetic methods including perms and dyeing.