afraid of triggering hair loss

Question
Dr. P, Got my blood test results back after starting a new bcp 3 months ago.  Cholesterol much higher than 6 mos ago - i suspect it could be the higher estrogen dose bcp.  I know my GP will recommend that I go on something else or go on a cholesterol lowering drug.  I really believe I kick started my regrowth with the new bcp (started Rogaine 5% at same time)- I haven't seen regrowth like this is years, so I'm really hesitant to go off of it.  Do you think the Rogaine will protect me if I have to go on another bcp?   Are there other ways to add estrogen? Do you have any insight on cholesterol-lowering drugs and their relationship to hair loss?  If it is not one thing, it is another...  Thanks for you feedback.


Answer
If I were you I would stay on the same two medications you think are helping your hair. I know very few doctors who would mess with an OCP because of an increase in cholesterol. More than likely you were eating too many nuts or ate a fatty meal the day before the test. Try using really good extra virgin olive oil instead of other oils, discontinue butter and use extra virgin olive oil instead. Do that for three months as well a bit more exercise and I will bet your cholesterol is back to normal without a cholesterol lowering drug. I do "expect Rogaine to hold it."