Surprisingly, both men and women contend with hair loss. Actually, hair loss among women is more common than most people think, but it is mentioned less often because there are stigmas associated with women losing hair. Hair loss occurs in women for a variety of reasons, such as hormonal fluctuations, increased stress or as a side effect of certain medications.

A woman's body is regulated by hormones in many ways, including control of everything from your body temperature to your monthly cycles. If these hormone levels become unbalanced, hair loss can take place. For example, if estrogen and testosterone get out of sync, the hair can start to thin or even fall out. Fluctuations in hormone levels are the reason why women notice hair loss during events such as puberty, pregnancy and menopause. Oftentimes if this is the reason for hair loss, a doctor can determine which hormones are responsible for the hair loss and correct the problem. In particular, hormone replacement therapy is sometimes used during menopause, and women who have this treatment generally notice an immediate increase in their hair thickness.

Women who are pregnant cannot for obvious reasons receive hormones or other medications designed to treat hormonal imbalances. They can, however, take comfort in the realization that within several months after delivery, their hormones will begin to regulate automatically. Then, hair growth will return to the same status as before the pregnancy occurred. Adolescents who experience significant hair changes as a result of puberty often experience relief with contraceptives containing low doses of hormones. Such options, however, should be explored fully with a physician to determine whether hormonal contraception is a good option for the female considering it.

In women, a major reason for losing hair is stress. You should look for a means of lessening the tension you are experiencing if you think your hair is falling out because of it. Talking to a friend about your problems can be helpful. And women often discover that exercising is a terrific means of letting go rather than allowing their daily tensions to build up. Perhaps the right answer may even lie in a life change like finding a different place to live or another line of work that's not so stressful.

Sometimes medications can cause excessive hair loss. This is a serious cause of concern. Though it is not a very common side effect certain drugs may react and cause thinning of hair. Immediately consulting a doctor and changing the medication can help prevent future problems of hair loss.