The Impact of Androgenetic Alopecia and Its Treatment Protocols on the Sexual Life of Affected Males and Females: An Analytical Literature Review

Abstract

Out of the several cosmetic-related problems that both men and women face during their lifetime, hair loss is one of the most common ones. There are several causes behind hair loss, but the most common ones are seen to sprout from a variety of genetic and environmental reasons. Almost a wide majority of the cases of hair loss are hereditary and run in families. Androgenetic Alopecia is one of the most common types of hair loss that both men and women experience. Although it is not necessary for androgenetic alopecia to affect one gender more than the other, it is normally seen that people of either gender who have had a significant family history of experiencing more hair fall, would ultimately be more predisposed to develop it at a particular time in their life. Although it seems to be an irreversible and never-ending issue, there have been several treatments prescribed that help reverse and resolve the problem, while giving rise to new hair growth as well. However, the treatments might have side effects of their own. This review deals with the sexual side effects or problems that might arise as a consequence of taking treatment for Androgenetic Alopecia. Loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, decreased interest, and gynecomastia are some of the common side effects that are linked with the various treatment protocols that have been prescribed for Androgenetic Alopecia. This review will explore these side effects and the mechanisms that cause these problems to arise in the first place.