The Causes of Hair Loss in WomenAlthough mostly associated as a man's condition, hair loss does occur in women. Treatment for women's hair loss is best selected after discovering the cause. There are three main reasons which cause the loss of hair in women.The Shedding CycleHair growth comes in three stages which include growth, rest, and shedding. After major surgery or the birth of a baby, women may see an increase in the amount of hair being shed. Fortunately, this is typically a temporary condition, subsiding when the growth stage of the hair is reactivated after the body recovers.Female Pattern Hair LossFemale pattern hair loss, or alopecia, is a genetic condition which causes women to loose hair. The most recommended treatment option is the use of minoxidil. Washing the hair in this chemical can help slow the rate at which hair is lost.Alopecia AreataPerhaps the most difficult type of hair loss with which to deal, alopecia areata is characterized by the loss of hair in massive clumps. Thought to be an autoimmune response in which the body attacks itself, it has a very rapid onset, as well as a rapid remission rate. The chemicals which are used to treat alopecia areata are very harsh, and hair pieces can be quite costly.Hair loss of any kind can be very devastating to women, who view their hair as their crowning glory. Properly identifying the cause of hair loss can help with both the treatment and coping of the condition.