Dermatologist Shares Hair Loss Causes and the Ways to Treat and Prevent it

Board-Certified Dermatologist Dr. Jenny Liu explains the common causes for female-pattern hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia and male-pattern hair loss, as well as the treatments available that may help prevent it or reverse it.
00:00 Intro
00:13 What is Female-Pattern Hair Loss?
02:20 What Causes Hair Loss?
05:25 Treatments for Hair Loss
13:48 Do Hair Supplements Work?
14:25 Outro
#HairLoss #Alopecia #Minoxidil
Music by WABI SABI - snowflake - thmatc.co/?l=519BB0F1
DISCLAIMER: The information in this video is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician. Also, product links may be affiliate links. Affiliate links support my KZbin channel so I can continue to create videos for you.

[@rashmikapur3169]

A few things that actually helped to control my hairfall include: (1) I quit wearing ponytails because it leds to tension damage. (2) I started massaging my hair and scalp twice a week with liitleextra cocoonnion hair oil while leaning forward & holding my head upside down to allow blood flow to the scalp. (3) Protecting my head while moving out to protect my hair from pollution. (4) Using mild shampoo again from liittleextra only to wash my hair.

[@lchicks86]

Thank you so much. Finally a thoroughly explained, medically backed video without product placement and discount codes. You've gained a subscriber.

[@TheRandom2334]

my hair started to thin when I was 17. I thought it would just magically regrow but it worsened overtime. Tried home remedies for years but none worked; currently 21 yrs old rn I have been very insecure about my hair. Thank you for giving such an informational video. Planning to consult w a dermatologist this month to hopefully help regrow my hair :)

[@burritochan5471]

Same..... we have the same experience, currently 22, during 17 I used to stay up very late and stress about my exam, the habit remains till today. Right now, my hair become very thin and the hairline started to become serious bald... even my friends will jokes abt it... now my hair is my biggest insecurity, and i used to wear hat everyday and the insecurity also stop me from going outside...

[@TheRandom2334]

@@burritochan5471 im sorry to hear this, hopefully someday we'll overcome :) it really sucks when people even point it out... I know I've commented this 3 months ago, unfortunately I'm too busy in college to consult with a derma xD sending you hugs!!

[@fighterinmkiwiscience3517]

​@@burritochan5471are you male?

[@faye8526]

my hair started getting super thin at 16 and it’s just gotten worse and my part is getting wider, i’m now 21 and my hair is also my biggest insecurity and i just don’t know what to do about it anymore 🥲

[@MsBrowniepuff]

@@faye8526I have the same issue, hair loss since I was 16 and I’m 26 now. Hair fibers help me conceal the baldness and fe more confident!

[@Sidyehg]

Amazing , the best video explaining everything to detailed. Thank you

[@madalenacalleja1199]

Hi Dr I do like the way you explain all your blogs. . Just to say thank you very informative 👏👌🌺

[@karenjackson4729]

The best video I’ve seen on this topic. Thank you!

[@ennigma8354]

Thanks for the explanation .. you really made me understand what I need for my problem.. thank you so much 😊🌹

[@user-ee6ld2fs1m]

Informations delivered very well. Finished the whole video thank you so mich doc ❤❤❤❤

[@bindib352]

Thanks for this informative video. I’ve tried so many things to no avail and am currently using a scalp massager daily and rosemary oil weekly. I’m going to start daily rosemary water too. I’m seeing a dermatologist whenever my appointment comes through. Previously they’ve fobbed me off but I hope this time I get someone who cares and will try to help me. It’s sad that there isn’t enough knowledge on this subject to be able to create an effective and safe solution for all. It’s overwhelming reading and researching and watching loads of videos and having to try so many things in the hope that something makes even the tiniest bit of a difference. 😔

[@trishwish5215]

Thank you so much for your help! After recovering from COVID, I noticed a considerable amount of hair loss. To address this, I took proactive measures. I revamped my diet, incorporating more protein and vitamins. Additionally, I started walking for at least 20 minutes daily and practiced 10 minutes of meditation to reduce stress. As part of my hair care routine, I used littleextra cocoonion hair oil twice a week, allowing it to sit for 5 hours before washing it off with littleextra natural mild shampoo and conditioner. In the mornings, I introduced amla juice into my routine. I also made the decision to cut back on smoking and drinking, reserving them for occasional socializing. All these changes played a role in reducing my hair fall. Thank you to everyone for supporting me throughout this process!

[@da4441]

Best part of this video starts at 9:10. So helpful.

[@debbiclay4703]

You explained everything so well, thank you!

[@freshmacarons]

Thanks for the information!

[@TheTinyHaus]

Detailed lecture. Thanks!

[@cearilindubhlaoi9507]

extremely helpful thank you so much 💓

[@cookingmama2959]

Good video. Thanks Dr.. Can minoxidil liniment for women? Any side effects?

[@charmainestevens5614]

Very comprehensive and well-explained. I started Minoxidil foam 3 months ago and was getting discouraged because I see no difference. I feel like I have a range of options now for treatment. Interestingly, I had severe cystic acne when younger, and was eventually prescribed Accutane which proved effective. Several female relatives, including mother, sister, aunt, and cousins have all had female pattern baldness. I guess it was inevitable.

[@pushparanchhod7685]

.utube

[@katyee888]

I second everyone's opinion that yours is the best explanation available on all the various treatments. Thank you, Dr. Liu. Great video. I will continue to try the minoxidil foam and have just purchased Numinox pump spray from Mediceuticals/Bioclenz brand that helps stimulate hair follicles. I don't want to purchase a laser cap bc it's pricey and I'm not convinced it will help. Thank you so much, Dr. Liu, for the great information.

[@wendyhandley9463]

Thank you for very informative program

[@praveenakishore7298]

I have female pattern hair loss. My parents and grandparents also have it . After extensive research on the subject , I am now using a hair topper. No chemicals , side effects etc. I have a couple of human hair toppers and they look like my real hair . Since there is no cure or treatment that will cause your hair to grow back , toppers are definitely the best solution for me . My husband is so fantastic and he has been so supportive to me. He always tells me he loves me for me , not for my hair … lol. I think that your confidence will definitely improve once you getsthe right topper. As women, our hair and appearance are so important to us, so it’s so awesome that we have choices when it comes to dealing with hair loss. Take care .

[@MsBrowniepuff]

Do you have any favorite stores for toppers?

[@praveenakishore7298]

@@MsBrowniepuff Hello,😃 I ordered a couple from Full Shine and one from Uniwig. Both these sites explain everything you need to know about the type of topper you need. I only get the real human hair toppers because they look the most natural. Also, when caring for the human hair toppers, make sure that you only use shampoo ,conditioner and other products made especially for human hair toppers. Best of luck to you🌸🌸

[@janinehudon8177]

Someone I know is dealing with this. Do toppers look natural? Who puts it on you - self or hairdresser? What decade are you e.g., 30s, and has this harmed relationships or career? Thanks for your post.

[@praveenakishore7298]

@@janinehudon8177 Hello, thanks for your questions. I have human hair toppers and they look natural. I recommend your friend go to a wig, topper specialty store. They will recommend the correct topper and show you how to put it on.I am in my late 40’s, but my hair started thinning in my 20’s. I have used Toppik and had my hair styled to hide my thinning hair, but it had had no effect on my career at all. I am very happy with my toppers and you can’t tell that I am wearing one. I hope this information helps your friend . Take care 😊

[@dianadickson6791]

That is so sweet and supportive of your husband. You certainly have a good man.

[@miroslavaokunlola8995]

Been using Spironolactone for 4 months. I find my hair falling off less. Unfortunately I started having problems swallowing. Couldn't take it longer for now. As I take only liquids. I was diagnosed with androgeneric Alopecia 😢

[@molo8657]

Excellent video! Would it be possible to discuss hair loss after Covid? ❤️

[@judychong-nakamura7348]

Could you please do a video about the new hair loss treatment Alma TED. It seems t be very promising for hair growth with no pain, no down time and little maintenance

[@binishbhojwani6261]

which LLLT helmet would you recommend? does biotin in excess give false negative or false positive result? thank yuo soooooo much

[@samiha_humayra_]

Thanks for sharing ❤

[@tanjinchandni2877]

I started losing hair after my 16kg+ weightloss..and it isn't stopping since then...i'm on medications plus i'm using a hair spray hopefully things will get better for me🥺

[@ngoc8778]

Note to self: 1. Hairloss treatment: combine multiple treatments - topical minoxidil - low-level laser therapy (red light?) - prp injections - microneedling 2. Hairloss prescriptions: - peopecia (finasteride) -> side effects: birth defects, decreased libido, mood changes - dutasteride: - oral minoxidil - spironolactone: also used to treat acne 3. Supplement: expensive? - viviscal - nutrafol

[@brendagorman6666]

My dermatologist prescribed a serum with Latisse, minoxidil, finestetide, spirodactone and tretinoin and I think it’s starting to work.

[@melissamorales7127]

Hi, what’s the name of the serum? I have my first appt with dermatologist next week . Thanks

[@brendagorman6666]

@@melissamorales7127 the serum doesn’t have a name. It is compounded by Medrock pharmacy . One location is Tampa, Fl. The dermatologist can order a prescription of whatever ingredients they want you to have and this place makes it and mails it to your home. I have also been putting it on my eyebrows and they are also growing again. I hope this helps

[@acquiesce100]

@@melissamorales7127 You owe Brendagorman666 big time. She has given you so much valuable information.

[@Jennifer-bz8ki]

It will help as long as you continue to use it.

[@crystltwilight]

I heard tretinoin is good for acne and wrinkles but I never heard about its use for hair growth? Is it applied directly to your scalp?

[@vettejakes]

Excellent info. Thanks!

[@yellow_blooms1993]

Do you know the proper way of dermarolling? I cannot seem to find a place that provides services for deems planning on the scalp. Thank you

[@jjchow4666]

Hi Doctor Can you talk about women hair transplant if you have a chance. Does it work in women and is it worth the money? Thank you!11

[@mochiandi9971]

Hi Jenny, my daughter 25 started hair loss recently as me (family). Chinese doctor said use "Spironolactone". But we are in New Zealand, specialist seems give no treatment. What can I do foe my daughter?

[@arloameans1466]

With Post Menopausal Alopecia, are there any real benifits to a rice and clove water rinse?

[@mildagovedaite4002]

El Cranell is also very good additional help! It’s german topical drug.

[@Soldrakenn]

Lost lots of hair while breast feeding, started eating a supplement for lactating women and got it back in a few months. For a lot of ppl, obviously not all, you might be nutrient deficient. Although she's clearly talking about a genetic kind so then ofc she knows best

[@Hb_2208]

May i know what supplement did you take?

[@Soldrakenn]

@@Hb_2208 Holistic - Femme Fertil plus

[@martinalaera9625]

My dermatologist prescribed me a lotion with estrone, hydrocortisone butyrate and alcool 70% . I noti noticed that you didn't mentioned this medications between the options.....what do you think about this type of treatment of female androgenetic alopecia?

[@sharonslevin2422]

Are you seeing positive results with what your Dr prescribed?

[@niamhbyrne4036]

Hi if on HRT & have low testosterone, can you take low testosterone if you have androgenic alopecia ?

[@ABeautyAddict]

What should we look for in a LLLT device? So many out there and I wouldn't like to waste time.

[@safa1012]

I am on 100mg Spironolactone and unfortunately my hair loss is still progressing. My density is half of what it once was. The trigger was when I came off birth control in September of 2022. I am unsure if dutasteride would be more effective for me? I find that Spironolactone had some intense side effects including dry eyes and low blood pressure. I feel dizzy often! Perhaps I need to try the laser cap, oral min, plus oral dutasteride and maybe even throw in nutrafol and micro needling. Throw the whole kitchen sink!

[@kimstillwell8707]

What causes hair and scalp to hurt? I don’t have it it in pony tail or other hair barrettes or clips but hurts to touch

[@maisy4675]

My derm put me on a topical soln of finasteride/minoxidil/retinoic acid and I’m taking nutrafol and have been doing so for the past two months. All I am seeing is darker thicker hair on my face/neck/and legs. Not on my hair. Any thoughts regarding adding the irestore helmet to regimen? Would something like the Joov help with hair loss and hyperpigmentation at the same time?

[@da4441]

I'm on 2.5 mg oral finasteride per day, and 5% minoxidil fluid once a day about 5 times a week and the iRestore helmet. I am getting noticeable new hair growth on my temples and front hairline where I had recession, and some growth on my crown where I had thinning.

[@vishrohi5198]

Doctor. What are the things to be followed for Female pattern during pregnancy and lactation? We cannot use minoxidil. Wat are the alternatives? How to combat severe hairloss

[@db-gb5xi]

See her video, Pregnancy Skin Changes - Stretch Marks, Melasma, Rashes, + More. Dr. Sam Ellis has a video, Dermatologist Shares Hair Loss Treatments for Postpartum & Female Pattern Hair Loss.

[@dr.jennyliu]

Minoxil can be safe during lactation so are laser light devices.

[@vishrohi5198]

@@dr.jennyliu thank u Doctor. What can be used during pregnancy doctor??

[@djfhfh]

Can female pattern hairloss effect temples and sodes only , im told i have telogen effluvium but its not getting better my part and crown remains thick , i am under a great deal of stress thank u

[@kellyly2456]

I have an IUD for 8 year now it cause my hormones high and my hair fall out a lot , I don’t know what cause until I heard my friend said the IDu really make u hair loss a lot , I need to remove IUD

[@215juliusgirl]

What does having excess sebum look like? Also, if you use Modoxinil and your hair starts falling out more, does that mean that it is going to work? And what dose of Spironolactone is usually given? I take it as a diuretic at 50mg. People do need to be very careful with their potassium levels, btw, with the Spironolactone. I haven’t noticed more hair but I don’t know what my dose is compared to those who take it for hair loss.

[@Jennifer-bz8ki]

Does brushing my hair/ scalp actually make any difference? Also what shampoo & conditioner ?

[@jake9854]

The theory here is something cause your blood vessel on your head to clog up. Which slow the blood flow to specific part of your head usually the crown. scalp that received less blood get less nutrient less oxygen ll turn into DHT ,instead of estradiol (require more oxygen)

[@jahonel]

Hi Doctor, I am a 19 year old boy and I am currently in accutane on my last month of the treatment and I am experiencing severe hair loss, and I am scared of it being permanent. I don’t mind if its for a few months being that it is a side effect, but I dont want it to be chronic. Please help me

[@TracyD2]

It should be temporary.

[@gulafshanikramraja2134]

Try Indian herbs and rosemary

[@karibgold5394]

I'd like to hear about "male pattern baldness" since that's I'm dealing with.

[@wendyhandley9463]

Since low levels of estrogen cause hair thinning with age, would prescribing estrogen then stop thinning and hair loss ?

[@nosillaxoc]

I am using topical minoxidil and it makes my scalp itch like crazy. I wash my hair once a week due to having naturally dry hair. Can I use the minoxidil less and it still work effectively? Thanks

[@niamhbyrne4036]

Are you using the foam?

[@matildasackey6432]

What about getting a hair transplant? Would that solve the situation?

[@buddy6743]

Unfortunately I haven't heard anything new on this subject.

[@Sunnyjim725]

I was using dermoroller at the front of my top scalp and using essential oils now that front of my top scalp has thinned and can see my scalp. I don’t lose any hair per day so confused what must have caused it.

[@antoniat633]

Everytime you wash your hair, rinse it again with rosemary tea.Also you can put on your scalp rosemary tincture one hour before you wash your hair.Do this everytime you wash your hair and will start to grow again.Another tip is to use an egg yolk mixt with little bit of water, put it on your hair, put a plastic over, wait 15 minutes and wash your hair with shampoo and again rinse it with rosemary tea.

[@Crazy09starkillor]

I don't understand why finasteride is still not fda approved for women especially menopausal women who are more prone to AGA. I get the teratogenic risk but that can be mitigated. And since minoxidil doesn't work for a lot of people as well

[@parinazaz4044]

I went to a dermatologist and she after doing some tests and finding out things she checked for are normal told me that the hormones in your scalp act and are different than hormones in your body .. and that’s what’s causing hair fall! Is that true?

[@Sky10811]

i got hair on my face after topical 5% minoxidil on scalp 1 ml twice oer day (woman) and PRP on my face how i can stop hair growth on my face? i never had it before minoxidil

[@tracyroth-myers5574]

I have lost so much hair that I am scared

[@jujusmom1508]

I tried 5% Minoxidil liquid and experienced severe headaches. I dropped that like a bad habit

[@bethmarie4559]

I’m using anti dandruff shampoo, vivascal, minoxidil, finasteride rosemary oil and microneedling it feels like a full time job and I my hair is still falling out. I’ve been consistently doing these treatments for months now. No results.

[@Tamtang02]

I have pcos and I'm having excessive hairloss and I am getting bald . I have loss my confidence in life. Please help me

[@supriyasonwalkar10]

I m facing massive hair loss..may i know yhat can i strt my treatment after 2 years or else i waill be suffering a lot ??

[@kizziekente2468]

Can u use finestaride and spirnolactone together

[@rownakmushtari5632]

Can you please tell whether reona hair spray is alternative to minoxidil as my dermatologist suggest it to apply.I am using topical 5percent minoxidil for almost 2 years if stop it now all my new hair will fall out?

[@Dave-cq9fn]

Yes, if you stop Minoxidil all the hair this product helped you keep on your head will fall out. Once Minoxidil is started you can NEVER stop it. I have had great results from ORAL Minoxidil 1.25 mg daily along with prescription Spironolactone 25 mg daily. My FPHL has virtually stopped after losing hair for 7 years. HTH! Blessings from Dave's wife

[@guanimos1638]

Could Hair loss from extreme stress start from the crown too? Is hairloss from the crown only gonna come from female pattern hairloss? No one in my family has hairloss or hairthinning like not even my great grandmother had this problem i suddenly got after having covid-19.

[@dr.jennyliu]

Usually that’s more pattern hair loss but stress may bring it out

[@peppermintwoman2049]

what about Rosemary oil and jojoba oil?

[@journeyinwellness]

How can one determine if it is androgen that is causing the thinning?

[@kedyahful]

A scalp biopsy is needed

[@snehaagarwal4791]

After countless videos and articles on why, how and what, baldness wins anyways😅.. can only spread awareness… but to negligible use😢… if this runs in the family and keeps on running then I am scared for my future child 😔 Bitter truth about female pattern hair loss is that it cannot be cured… can only be managed/delayed… so let’s say instead of getting bald at 40 you will be bald by 50. But u will have to live painfully through ur hair dying slowly. I might sound like a pessimist but it breaks you over time and I have had enough.

[@nautanki4794]

But the question goes to how much , in what extent the baldness would reach . Bcs in some it is confined to some little area while in others , the entire scalp gets bald even to the extent that they can't wear a wig !!!

[@corazonvalerio6618]

can Spironolactone helps regrow hair in females?

[@kimberly5578]

You mentioned Nutrafol was a possible helpful supplement, but biotin can interfere with others medicines, etc. Nutrafol contains biotin does it not? Thanks

[@dr.jennyliu]

It’s the amount taken. But more importantly is that biotin doesn’t work. supplements in general can interfere with labs so always best to ask your doc. In never recommend taking supplements on their own for hair growth

[@stephanieilluzzi7355]

@@dr.jennyliuSo if not “taking supplements on their own,” are you suggesting that we take supplements (like Viviscal or Nutrafol) while also using other remedies? If so, which do you most recommend? I’m nearly 68 & have noticed considerably shedding for about the past 6 months. I have not yet taken any supplements, but have only used texture-enhancing shampoos. I’m trying to learn & research as much as possible before I resort to supplements. THANK YOU very much for any suggestion you may offer! New subscriber. 🥰

[@graciecross2406]

Very informative. My problem is thinning hair and the feel of something crawling on my scalp sometimes but I can't see anything. My scalp and body itch sometimes and I constantly wash my hair which may not be good. My dermatologist prescribed minoxidil for men which I never used because I am 71 female and am concerned about excess body hairs. I do take biotin, zinc, B12. What can I do?

[@Dogandcatmom51]

@@dr.jennyliu , what about taking only two pills of Nutrafol instead of 4 so that the side effects are less? Would 2 pills not work at all? I wish the hair supplements didn’t contain so much biotin.

[@linzi6778]

Whats best for menopause hair loss I also suffer from HS

[@beccah4969]

Does psoriasis cause hair loss? I have that and genetics working against me

[@momslistening]

With the supplements, do you take both viviscal and nutrafol?

[@dr.jennyliu]

No I would just take one

[@onthehill3381]

Keto diet low carb diet is key In PCOS. I’m surprised at how this is not even touched upon. Not really surprised though as physicians are basically working for the pharmaceutical companies. No amount of topical treatments will help if you are loading up with sugar and carbs which negatively effect your hormones! Once you are older like me your hair follicles are likely dead.

[@aureliasieberhagen9340]

Yes, I totally agree with you. No Dermatologist talks about diet. I was diagnosed with Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia a while ago and immediately went on a low glycemic diet. Sugar and high carbs (white bread, white flower) cause inflammation in other diseases, so cutting out all food that causes inflammation makes sense. I haven't seen any improvement yet, but I've lost 4kg so far.

[@guisellalosa7557]

I’ve seen thousands of videos and all recommend just minoxidil! I don’t wanna use it for their side effects like more hair in the face. Mmmmmmhhh what’s the solution? Is it iron? I’m hopeless!!

[@alicew87]

Hi! Is it possible to be diagnosed with female androgenic hair loss yet my hormones are fine??

[@thiefonthecross7552]

It's regarding your hair follicle sensitivity to DHT. Hormones can be normal.

[@chrish9155]

who wants to take medicines? pleas recommend some natural treatments

[@tinag9507]

2% Ketoconazole shampoo...myo inositol....prp

[@PureJoy_]

There is no cure for hair loss... im really considering extentions at this point...

[@elenasalisbury8282]

I am considering investing into a nice hair topper or a wig ( human hair )

[@DubKc]

Does dying your hair make it fall?

[@sharonslevin2422]

I think it does, especially if you use high heat. I’ve noticed it does with my hair, so I try to use lower heat or even a cool air blow out.

[@ghanwashahid9405]

i hv PCOS alopecia

[@alexischarlotte4685]

I was able to stop my facial hair's with doctor Isibor supplement in less than 21 day's, no more hairs

[@AiaRio_1997]

Me, 25 yrs old but my hair was thinning like what I saw in your video.

[@juliasanandres7722]

What about the cure?. The medicine you mentioned doesn’t really work for everyone. Too many side effects too.

[@CrystalRose1111]

There is no cure. If you have PCOS you need to go keto, or at least gluten and dairy free.

[@roboxxx645]

I'm currently 17 right now I just notice my hair fall too much

[@antoniat633]

Take 2 egg yolks mix them with little bit of water, put it on your hair, put a towel and wait 15 minutes than wash it with shampoo and at the end rinse it with rosemary tea.

[@marialange9509]

Is it good to eat meat and potatoes?

[@ilovedemonslayer7457]

After covid l have strange stuff on my scalp there red & brown spots all over my scalp hurts a lot, my hair is falling out so bad l can’t even brush it or touch it. I also do have pcos as well

[@hkwak002]

Ladies, if you use Rogaine, don't fall for the pink tax. Men's rogaine and women's rogained are exactly the same ingredients and dosage but Men's rogaine is cheaper than women's...

[@emmytbk]

I am trying now visvical

[@reginaf2263]

I have been using it for over a year . My hair was doing better on this for awhile but now it's falling out horribly :(

[@dharma__3]

Thanks but minoxidil for most women is highly problematic ... no new info here.

[@kfc6573]

Can we just all be bold??? The heck with pharmaceuticals..

[@jemmaj2919]

What about male baldness pattern in women 😭?

[@djfhfh]

You cant have male pattern if your female it's possible you can have a pattern that looks the way men lose their hair but that's still female pattern hairloss

[@CrystalRose1111]

@@djfhfhno, it’s called androgenic hair loss, which can affect men and women.

[@djfhfh]

@@CrystalRose1111 also known as male of female pattern

[@proshantaghosh2161]

There is no treatment other than hair transplant in case of male pattern baldness. Only false hope

[@Ali-em7xu]

It’s very prevalent in African American women. Not sure if you’re treated them to come up with the race part of your video

[@ClaudinneV]

The information may be good but the doctor talks in a very monotonome way...like no intonation at all, no ups and downs. Don't know how to explain it but couldn't stand listening to her the entire video. Maybe it is just me..anyway.

[@Jay-po4kh]

How you are going to help us grow hair when you hardly have hair ?

[@anntaylor4247]

That's a very unkind comment.

[@nilimaislam7430]

Does minoxidil stop collagen production? And makes you age early?

[@dr.jennyliu]

No

[@CrystalRose1111]

If anything it’s your hormones that do that. Especially if you’re a woman with PCOS. Starting to learn that the hard way ….