Hair loss doesn’t only affect men. In fact, millions of women quietly struggle with hair thinning, especially around the crown or top of the scalp. This condition, known as female-pattern hair loss or female-pattern baldness, is one of the most common types of hair loss in women—and it often has a hormonal root.

Unlike male-pattern baldness, which typically starts with a receding hairline or bald spot at the crown, hair thinning in women tends to be more diffuse. You may notice more hair in the shower drain, a widening part, or decreased hair volume over time. The changes are often subtle at first but can have a deep emotional impact.

Why Does Hair Loss Happen in Women?

Hair growth is controlled by a complex interplay of hormonal signals and cellular messengers. When these signals fall out of balance—whether due to hormones, genetics, or stress—the hair growth cycle can be disrupted, leading to shedding or thinning.

Some of the most common causes of hair loss in women include:

• Hormonal imbalances: An increase in male hormones (androgens), particularly DHT (a byproduct of testosterone), can shrink hair follicles and shorten the growth phase.

• Thyroid dysfunction: Both underactive and overactive thyroid conditions can interfere with normal hair cycling.

• Menopause: A drop in estrogen levels allows androgens to exert more influence on hair follicles, resulting in crown thinning.

• PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome): Women with PCOS often produce higher levels of androgens, contributing to hair thinning.

• Low iron or ferritin levels: Hair cells are highly sensitive to nutritional status, and low iron—even without anemia—can impair hair growth.

• Stress and cortisol: Elevated cortisol disrupts normal signaling pathways in hair follicles, causing more hairs to shift into the shedding phase.

• Medications and illness: Certain medications, infections, and autoimmune conditions can trigger temporary or chronic hair loss.

In women, hair loss is rarely caused by just one factor. It's often a combination of hormonal shifts, metabolic imbalances, and environmental stressors interacting with genetic predisposition.

Diagnosing the Root Cause

Because hair loss has many possible contributors, identifying the exact cause is essential. At Chia Endocrinology & Wellness, Dr. Hasan takes a comprehensive approach—evaluating your hormones, nutritional status, thyroid function, and overall health. We’ll use blood tests and scalp examination to get a more detailed picture.

What Are the Treatment Options?

Treatment is most effective when it targets the underlying cause. Options may include minoxidil, anti-androgens, hormonal therapy, stress and sleep management, low-level laser therapy, and supplements —such as iron, zinc, vitamin D, or other key nutrients.

How Dr. Hasan Helps Women With Hormonal Hair Thinning:

As an endocrinologist, Dr. Hasan specializes in uncovering hidden hormonal and metabolic contributors to female hair loss. His strategy is not just to treat the symptom—thinning hair—but also to correct the internal imbalances that caused it. Every woman’s hair journey is different, which is why he personalizes each treatment plan based on detailed evaluation and ongoing guidance.

If you're noticing signs of female-pattern baldness, hair thinning at the crown, or unexplained shedding, don’t wait until it becomes overwhelming. Let’s get to the root of the issue—together.

Schedule a consultation to begin your personalized hair restoration plan!

At Chia Endocrinology & Wellness, Dr. Farhad Hasan serves patients across Western Pennsylvania, including the city of Pittsburgh and surrounding areas in Allegheny County such as Ross Township, McCandless, Pine, Marshall, Mars, Richland, Gibsonia, Wexford, Sewickley, Franklin Park, Hampton, Shaler, Findlay, Upper St. Clair, Robinson, North Fayette, Monroeville, and Moon Township. We also serve Butler County, covering Cranberry Township, Seven Fields, Zelienople, Butler, Harmony, and Evans city, as well as patients in nearby Washington County and Beaver County.