Hair Loss in Women Athletes: The Hidden Cost of Performance Boosters

Female athletes are increasingly turning to performance-enhancing substances (PES) to gain an edge. But these substances, especially androgenic and anabolic steroids (AAS), can have serious side effects. One of the most visible is hair loss, known as female pattern hair loss (FPHL). AAS are synthetic versions of testosterone. They can mess with hormones and lead to hair loss. This is a big deal for women, as hair loss can cause emotional stress and body image issues. Yet, most research on hair loss from PES focuses on men. This leaves female athletes without enough information or support. Why does this happen? AAS can disrupt the natural balance of hormones in the body. This disruption can lead to hair follicles shrinking and eventually stopping hair growth. For female athletes, this can be devastating. Hair loss can affect self-esteem and mental health. Managing FPHL in athletes using AAS is tricky. The first step is to stop using these substances. But that's not always easy. Athletes may face pressure to keep using PES to maintain performance. Additionally, treating hair loss requires a combination of medical treatments and psychological support. The impact of hair loss goes beyond physical appearance. It can lead to body image issues and even eating disorders. Female athletes already face a lot of pressure to look a certain way. Adding hair loss to the mix can make things worse. Research in this area is still limited. More studies are needed to understand the full impact of AAS on female athletes. Clinicians also need better tools to help these athletes. Education and support are crucial to managing the physical and emotional effects of hair loss.