Triphasic Birth Control & Hair Loss: A Personal Experience

Question
I'm 39 years old and have been on tri-phasic bcp for many years.  At one point I was told that tri-phase pills were recommended for women over 35.  The last few years, I've been going through repeated cycles of major hair loss and regrowth. Each period of loss or growth begins like a light switch; one day it's growing and the next it comes out by the handful, keeps on that way and then one day it doesn't come out anymore and grows back, then switches overnight again.  I've had thyroid and blood tests; all fine. I read that a spike in hormones could cause hair loss. Could taking the tri-phasic pills possibly be responsible for this?  Would there be any point in trying a monophasic pill (considering my age) to see if things change?  Also I've read that mono pills work better for skipping a period for traveling.  I'm skipping a period right now on the tri-phase and it seems like my hair is falling out even worse than before. Don't know if it's related or coincidence. Thanks.

Answer
Hair loss tends to be associated with big changes in hormones, such as after delivery.  I doubt that the pill is causing your hair loss, although the only way to be sure is to stop the pill for long enough to see if there is a difference.  I've never been a fan of triphasic pills and think they just complicate things.  As far as the pill in women over 35, I think the main thing is to be on the lowest dose of pill possible.  Triphasics may not be as good for skipping a period because the doses change, and you want a steady dose of hormones to prevent irregular bleeding.  The other thing you might want to try is getting a monophasic pill and taking it continuously.  Then there is no hormone change at all.  If your period wants to come, stop the pills for 4 days and restart.  So in summary, I'd either stop the pill for a few months or go on a very low dose (20 micrograms estrogen) monophasic pill and consider taking it continuously.  Good luck.