I wish I knew the exact number of how many women have been thrown into hair loss from oral contraceptives. All I know is the number would be quite high. The pill Loestrin FE began the onset of my female pattern hair loss approximately 8 years ago. After doing a little research on the subject I realized that Loestrin FE was a high androgen index pill. I certainly wish someone would have let me in on that little secret, and informed me about the potential consequences of taking the pill. Of course you still have to be genetically susceptible to androgenetic alopecia in the first place, but who knows whether or not they are until it happens. Everyone one in my family still has all their hair including my brothers so I never thought in a million years I’d lose my hair, and certainly not at the age of 21.

It is important to note that sometimes the hair loss is a temporary telogen effluvium, and for those lucky women their hair restores back to it’s former state in time.

The American Hair Loss Association provides some information regarding the androgen index of several pills ranking them in order from lowest to highest. You’ll notice Loestrin in on the “high” end. I’ve been searching for a more complete list that would contain a greater number of pills currently on the market, including the newer ones such as seasonique but have yet to come across any.

Below is a list of birth control pills ranging from lowest androgen index to highest:

Desogen, Ortho-Cept, Ortho-Cyclen, Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Micronor, Nor-Q D, Ovcon-35, Brevicon/Modicon, Ortho Norvum 7/7/7, Ortho Novum 10-11, Tri-Norinyl, Norinyl and Ortho 1/35, Demulen 1/35, Triphasil/Tri-Levien, Nordette, Lo/Ovral, Ovrette, Ovral, Loestrin1/20, Loestrin 1.5/30.

The following hormonal contraceptives have a significant potential of causing or exacerbating hair loss.

It is important to note that any medication or therapy that alters a woman’s hormones, including but not limited to, contraceptives, can trigger hair loss in anyone who takes them.

Progestin Implants

Implants, such as Norplant, are small rods implanted surgically beneath the skin, usually on the upper arm. The rods release a continuous dose of progestin to prevent ovulation.

Hormone Injections

Progestin injections, such as Depo-Provera, are given into the muscles of the upper arm or buttocks. This injection prevents ovulation.

Skin Patch

The skin patch (Ortho Evra) is placed on your shoulder, buttocks, or other location. It continually releases progestin and estrogen.

Vaginal Ring

The vaginal ring (NuvaRing) is a flexible ring about 2 inches in diameter that is inserted into the vagina. It releases progestin and estrogen.

About the author: The founder of The Women’s Hair Loss Project, an interactive blog that unites and empowers women around the world who suffer from hair loss. The online community eases feelings of hopelessness, loneliness and isolation, provides an accepting, therapeutic environment for sufferers to share their intimate experiences and emotions, and disseminates practical information on its causes and treatments. It also offers a safe place to share common feelings. To participate, read tips and heartfelt users’ stories, visit: http://www.womenshairlossproject.com

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