Why is my hair thinning in menopause?

Yes — thinning hair is a common menopause symptom, caused mainly by falling oestrogen (which helps hair grow) and a shift in its balance with androgens.

Oestrogen keeps hair in its growing phase longer and supports thickness. As it falls in perimenopause and menopause, hair can grow more slowly, become finer, and shed more — typically a diffuse thinning across the crown and parting rather than bald patches. At the same time, the relative influence of androgens (male-type hormones women also have) can increase, which in some women adds thinning at the hairline. Stress, poor sleep, low iron or vitamin D, and thyroid problems can all make it worse, so they're worth checking.

It's distressing, but for many women it's partial and manageable rather than dramatic — and treatable causes like low iron or thyroid issues are common and fixable.

What to do: ask your GP to check for iron deficiency, thyroid problems, and vitamin D, since these are common, treatable contributors. Support hair with enough protein, gentle hair care, and stress management. HRT helps some women by restoring oestrogen; topical minoxidil is an evidence-based option for female-pattern thinning. If hair loss is sudden, patchy, or severe, see your doctor for a proper assessment.