Around 40 per cent of women over 50 notice some degree of hair thinning, and around 50 per cent experience some degree of hair loss. Yet despite hair changes being common symptoms of the menopause, these aren’t often talked about, and many women struggle in silence.

Neil Harvey, chair of the Institute of Trichologists, discusses the causes and impact of hair loss and hair thinning at the menopause in a newsletter. He looks at what may be worsening the symptoms, along with the range of medical and non-medical treatments, such as medicines, HRT, nutrition, and dietary supplements.

“Hormonal changes are the most common causes of hair changes at this time of life,” says Norma Goldman, founder and director of The Menopause Exchange. “But other things can make hair loss or hair thinning worse, such as thyroid conditions, iron deficiency, some medicines, and stress or anxiety. The good news is that there are effective treatments available for hair loss and hair thinning, so women must speak to their GP, menopause specialist or trichologist, a specialist in diseases or problems affecting the hair and scalp.”