Female hair loss is more common than most people think. In women, this pattern hair loss is called female pattern alopecia. In many cases, the hair loss is partial, similar to that seen in male pattern baldness. Female pattern hair loss occurs most often in menopausal women and may affect one-third of the women who have this disorder. Initially, the thinning occurs gradually. With regard to genetics, the hair loss can be passed down from either parent.

When looking at women with hair loss, it's typical to see a slow thinning of hair. Increasingly shorter hairs grow back in the place of lost hairs until hair appears to be drastically thinned in affected areas. It is most common to see dramatic loss on the front and top of a woman's head. This problem can be devastating and extremely embarrassing for many women.

Hair loss can occur after pregnancy or after stopping taking birth control medication. Although it may occur as early as puberty, it more commonly occurs after menopause. In some cases, female pattern hair loss is associated with severe psychological stress or physical illness. Hair loss related to these causes may only be temporary, and the hair may sometimes return without anything needing to be done. This, however, does not happen overnight.

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.

The downside of treatment is that it doesn't always deliver results. Many cosmetic alternatives have been developed such as perms and dying that attempt to negate the appearance of lost or thinning hair. Hair extensions and high-quality wigs are also making improvements and have become quite a realistic-looking choice for the woman suffering from hair loss. If you are experiencing this problem, research your various options before committing to any particular solution that is right for you.