Postpartum hair loss is a common problem that many new mothers experience after pregnancy because hormonal changes occur during pregnancy. It can be alarming to see a pile of hair fall out, but this kind of hair shedding is temporary and will generally work itself out. However, pregnancy does not result to loss of hair but can be helped with managing the condition and growing back hair if proper postpartum hair care is practiced.
New mothers can feel better armed to tackle the causes, symptoms and best treatments for hair loss after childbirth. Having stronger and healthier hair growth is possible and this can be done, by taking the right steps, to minimize postpartum hair shedding.
Due to the huge shift in hormone levels after childbirth, postpartum hair loss is one of the main reasons for it. During pregnancy, the hormone estrogen levels rise significantly which prolongs the hair growth phase and decreases the amount of daily shedding. Instead, your hair tends to grow thicker and drier. However, after the baby is born, estrogen levels decrease quickly and all your hair goes into the shedding phase at once. The physically or emotionally stressful condition leads to this process, which is known as telogen effluvium, a temporary form of hair loss.
However, most women begin to shed postpartum hair around three to four months after delivery. Hair growth can return to normal in several months or so, but this can carry on for several months. Hair loss can be as mild as it can be severe, but it is not at all shocking, considering that it is a natural part of the postpartum recovery process.
A body can undergo many changes during pregnancy and after childbirth and nutrient levels are prone to change. Hormonal hair loss delay recovery may also be caused by not taking in enough vitamins and minerals through a mother’s diet. Weak hair follicles are made harsher by deficiencies in iron, biotin, zinc, and vitamin D.
The breast feeding mothers in particular should make sure that they take sufficient nutrients to support their own health and that of the baby. To improve hair strength and stop excessive hair thinning, a good diet with a proper balance of protein, healthy fats and vitamins is recommended.
Stress is one of the main reasons why hair loss occurs when you are taking care of a newborn. All that sleepness nights, hormonal transformations and emotional adjustments can have an impact in general on your health, including hair growth. Stress can also cause high stress levels leading to disrupted hair growth cycle: prolonging the shedding phase and slowing down regrowth.
Under emotional factors, postpartum depression or anxiety can also raise the risk of postpartum hair loss besides physical stress. Relaxation techniques such as relaxation techniques, self-care routine, and seeking support from family, or professionals can help to greatly relieve stress and enhance both mental as well as hair health.
The average time for most women to start shedding hair postpartum is around three months following birth and the peak occurrence of shedding is between four to six months. This seems excessive, but the shedding is usually temporary, and as the hormones stabilize, new hair begins to grow. The baby will have hair regrowth by approximately 12 months and many women are back to how their pre-pregnancy hair used to be.
But there are some instances where hair loss also remains after the first year. Shedding which continues or occurs in patches across the scalp may be a sign of an underlying condition such as postpartum thyroid or chronic telogen effluvium. Seeing a doctor or dermatologist could clue in you as to the cause and recommend the right kind of treatment.
However, as postpartum hair loss is usually harmless, it should not be ignored if the excessive shedding continues beyond one year after giving birth. Unlike other scalp conditions and causes of hair loss that develop gradually over time, when hair loss is accompanied by other symptoms such as extreme fatigue, rapid weight changes, and scalp irritation, it can signify an underlying health issue (thyroid dysfunction or anemia).
Blood tests can be performed by a medical professional looking at nutritional deficiencies or hormonal imbalances, if these are the cause of prolonged hair loss. Once pregnancy, underlying conditions are treated, it can help to restore hair regrowth and most importantly improve overall health.
Gentle hair care routine is one of the best ways to deal with postpartum hair loss. Protecting hair from further damage may be aided by mild sulfate free shampoos and conditioners. Also, there are some ways that you can avoid breakage, reduce stress on the hair follicles and breakage by avoiding harsh styling products, excessive heat and tight hairstyles that pull on the scalp.
Use a wide tooth comb to brush the hair gently to prevent additional pulling and breaking. Another thing is to restrict washing frequency to prevent the scalp from stripping inherent oils that keep the hair healthy.
Regular massaging of scalp can increase blood circulation, which aids in hair growth following pregnancy. Essential oils like rosemary or castor oil can also help hair growth by nourishing the hair follicles and giving fresh booster to new strands.
Scalp massages can also be incorporated into a self-care routine to make the environment healthier for hair growth reducing stress and improving relaxation.
Hormonal hair loss can be recovered by eating a healthy diet. Iron, biotin, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin D-rich foods can enhance hair and help regrow them. Eggs, salmon, nuts, leafy greens, and whole grains are some of the best foods for postpartum hair care.
Dehydration can also make dry brittle hair and is also important. Consuming enough water causes that nutrients assimilate and disperse all around the body up to ensure optimal condition of overall health and hair.
Hair growth supplements can offer additional help to women who are experiencing severe postpartum hair loss. Biotin, folic acid, and collagen supplements help keep hair strong and reduce falling out too much. This, however, means that new supplements should be taken only after consulting a healthcare provider, especially for breastfeeding mothers.
Other topical treatments available such as minoxidil (Rogaine) may also help to speed up hair rebuilding after pregnancy, but should only be used with medical guidance. Also natural remedy like aloe vera and coconut oil can be useful to nourish the scalp and to promote better hair growth.
While postpartum hair shedding is no fun, it does not mean your hair is falling forever and it is just a phase. Hair regrowth may take time to occur and patience is needed. To aid in your hormonal hair loss recovery and healthier, stronger hair, focus on self-care, decrease stress, and eat nutritious food. Changes in hair texture and volume can also be welcomed into the postpartum world. Hair loss is just one of the many changes that come with giving birth, so it is to be expected that every new mother’s postpartum experience is unique.
This content was created by AI