Stories
Stress vs. PMOS: Gynaecologist Reveals Hair Thinning Differences
- •Dr. Arti Gupta Tuli explains that both stress and PMOS can cause hair thinning, but their patterns and progression differ.
- •Stress-related hair loss typically appears 2-3 months after a stressful event, causing even shedding across the scalp, and is usually temporary.
- •PMOS-related hair thinning is a hormonal issue, often linked to increased androgen levels, leading to Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) with thinning at the crown and a widening center parting.
- •Other PMOS symptoms include irregular periods, fatigue, cramps, facial hair, new acne, and weight gain, which can help differentiate the cause.
- •Lifestyle changes like stress management, adequate sleep, physical activity, and a diet rich in iron and protein, while limiting sugar and refined carbs, can help manage both conditions.
Key Questions Answered
Stress-related hair loss sheds evenly across the entire scalp two to three months after a stressful phase and is usually temporary. In contrast, PMOS-related hair thinning is a hormonal issue driven by elevated androgens that typically causes widening at the centre parting and crown while leaving the hairline intact.
PMOS can be accompanied by several physiological changes, including irregular periods, fatigue, cramps, facial hair, new acne, and weight gain around the middle. Additionally, the condition can involve insulin resistance and metabolic challenges.
Managing stress, maintaining adequate sleep, staying physically active, and taking regular breaks can support overall wellbeing and reduce stress-related shedding. Experts also recommend eating enough iron and protein while going easy on sugar and refined carbs to help keep insulin and androgen levels in check.
