Obstetrician/Gynecologist

Finasteride is seen as risky for men due to side effects like erectile dysfunction, while hormonal birth control for women is normalized despite its side effects. The discussion points out a double standard influenced by societal and gender norms.

A 30-year-old female with PCOS and male pattern baldness is frustrated with her endocrinologist's recommendation of only Spironolactone and minoxidil, feeling that dutasteride, finasteride, and progesterone would be more effective. Other users suggest various online sources for treatments, warn against self-medicating due to potential risks, and recommend seeking a specialized endocrinologist or considering additional treatments like Inositol, Berberine, and dermaneedling.

A doctor advised against using finasteride or dutasteride during pregnancy. The user continues with oral and topical minoxidil, microneedling, tretinoin, Nizoral, and pyrilutamide.

A user with AGA uses topical spironolactone 2% due to side effects from the oral form and is concerned about its use during conception and breastfeeding. They seek alternatives to prevent AGA relapse while planning pregnancy and after childbirth.

The user is seeking recommendations for a knowledgeable dermatologist in the Denver/Boulder area to address male pattern baldness, as they are dissatisfied with their current treatment of topical finasteride and are considering switching to dutasteride. They feel their current doctor is not open to exploring different treatments that could improve hairline thickness.

A female with PCOS and androgenetic alopecia is starting treatment with oral Minoxidil, topical Minoxidil 5% with finasteride, and plans to add mesotherapy. She previously tried anti-androgenic contraceptive pills but couldn't tolerate them and is using Myo Inositol for weight management.