Prevalence of female pattern hair loss in postmenopausal women in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background and Aims: Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is a common but frequently overlooked condition that affects postmenopausal women worldwide. It impacts both physical appearance and psychosocial well-being. This study examined the prevalence, risk factors, and psychosocial consequences of FPHL among postmenopausal women in Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to December 2025 using a self-administered online questionnaire to assess the prevalence of FPHL and associated factors among postmenopausal women from various regions of Saudi Arabia. Convenience sampling was used. Chi-square tests were used to examine the associations between categorical variables and the prevalence of hair loss among menopausal women. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: A total of 385 participants completed an online Arabic language questionnaire. 69.9% of the participants reported experiencing hair thinning or loss. Most noticed these changes within 1–2 years after menopause, with the frontal scalp predominantly affected. Early menopause (ages 40–45), chronic diseases (notably diabetes and hypertension), a positive family history, and high stress levels were significantly associated with increased hair loss prevalence (p<0.05). Despite these findings, only 30.1% of affected women sought medical advice, with many opting for natural remedies over medical treatments. Additionally, FPHL was linked to reduced self-confidence and impaired social interactions, highlighting its substantial psychosocial burden. Conclusion: This study found that FPHL is highly prevalent among postmenopausal women in Saudi Arabia and is significantly associated with early menopause, chronic diseases, family history, and stress. These findings emphasize the need to raise awareness and encourage early intervention to improve outcomes for affected women.

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