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The condition

Postpartum Alopecia

What is postpartum hair loss?

Have you noticed your hair falling out more after having a baby? That’s postpartum hair loss, also called telogen effluvium or postpartum alopecia, a common condition triggered by hormonal fluctuations. High levels of estrogen during pregnancy prevent hair from entering the resting phase, resulting in thicker locks. But during and after pregnancy, estrogen levels fall, and all the additional hair comes out at once. It typically begins three months after giving birth and can extend for at least a year. It’s absolutely normal, and yet it can feel frustrating. The good news? Your hair will grow back! A healthy diet, mild hair care, and treatments can also help to speed up the regrowth process.

Hair typically grows half an inch per month and there are three main phases that hair goes through as it grows:

  • Anagen (Growing Phase): Can last from 2 to 7 years during which hair grows actively.
  • Catagen (Transition Phase): A brief period during which hair growth stops as it prepares to detach from the hair follicle.
  • Telogen (Resting Phase): Lasts approximately three months during which old hairs fall out to make way for new growth.
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Condition: Postpartum Hair Loss
Contents

 Symptoms

 When to See a Doctor

 Causes

 Risk Factors

 Complications

 Prevention

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The symptoms

More hair falling out

You might notice more hair in your brush, shower drain or on your pillow.

Thinner hair

You may notice your hair looks thinner in particular in the area near your hairline and temples.

Shedding in clumps

Some mothers observe larger clumps of hair coming out at a time.

When to see a doctor?
Consultation Is The Key
How does it affect new moms?

Shedding phase after pregnancy is normal, but sometimes it means something more. You should see a doctor if:

  • No new growth, and noticeable hair loss that persists for over a year.
  • You see bald spots or thinning in unexpected places.
  • You’re losing over 100 hairs per day, postpartum hair loss results in more shedding than normal.
  • You have additional symptoms — tiredness, weight changes, brittle nails — which, could indicate a thyroid problem or iron deficiency.

If you’re concerned, a doctor can examine what’s triggering the hair loss and recommend steps to support hair regrowth.

Hormonal fluctuations
What causes postpartum hair loss?

During pregnancy, more estrogen means that hair is kept in the growth phase and is therefore thicker. After giving birth, estrogen levels drop, resulting in many of the hairs entering the resting phase and falling out (usually after a couple months), contributing to postpartum hair loss.

Nutrient deficiency
Who is susceptible to postpartum hair loss?

Shedding hair after childbirth is extremely common, more than 90 percent of women said they experienced it in a recent study. A few things can make it worse:

  • Hormone Changes: Prolonged breastfeeding may contribute to lower estrogen, which may cause hair loss to persist.
  • Pregnancy and labor effects: Delivering early (preterm labor) has also been correlated with more severe hair loss probably caused by hormonal changes.
  • Possible inflammation:
    Some researchers think inflammation in the body might also contribute.
The complications
Hidden Dangers
Can postpartum hair loss cause problems?
  • Longer-lasting hair thinning

    Shedding typically resolves within a year, but some people continue to lose hair because of hormonal changes or nutrient deficiency.

  • Stress and confidence issues

    Excessive hair loss can be a cause of concern and impact self-esteem.

  • Weak, brittle hair

    Any new hair that regrows can be thinner or more delicate.

  • Possible health concerns

    Postpartum hair loss intrigues some researchers because of its association to either inflammation or thyroid issues.

  • Hair tourniquet

    In rare cases, fallen hair can wrap itself around your baby’s fingers or toes or other body parts and cause pain and restrict blood supply.

The prevention
Take Prenatal Vitamins
Do I still need to take prenatal vitamins postpartum?

Taking prenatal vitamins provides your body with crucial nutrients that aid hair growth, such as iron, folic acid, and biotin.

Vitamins best for hair health

Hair strengthening vitamins like biotin, iron, vitamin D helps with hair loss. Consult your physician to see what vitamins are best for you.

Manage Stress
Avoiding stress to slow down hair shedding.

Stress can absolutely worsen postpartum hair loss by impacting your hormones. Finding time to unwind can cut back on hair loss.

Prevent postpartum hair loss by reducing stress

Things like deep breathing, good sleep, and seeking help when appropriate can go a long way here. Do small things that you feel calm doing, like listening to music, going for a walk, or something that makes you happy.

Use Gentle And Natural Products
Can you fight postpartum hair loss with the right shampoo?

Volumizing shampoos give your hair a fuller appearance, and lightweight conditioners help prevent your hair from becoming weighed down.

Choosing the best products

Seek products that are “volumizing” or “thickening” made for fine hairs. You probably want to experiment with a few different ones to find what works best for your hair.

Giving Your Hair Extra Care
Does brushing hair hard and washing it make it worse?

Being aggressive with your hair can lead to excessive shedding. Also avoid excessive heat like blow dryers to avoid added breakage.

Proper hair care

Use a wide-toothed comb, wash with lukewarm water and avoid tight ponytails or braids that pull on your hair.

Time For A Haircut
Can getting a haircut help with hair loss?

Shorter haircuts can work better when you have a baby since they make your hair look fuller and are easier to manage.

Best hairstyle for thinning hair

Volume can be achieved with layered cuts and bobs. Consult with your stylist about a style that suits you best.

  • collapse expand
    Do I still need to take prenatal vitamins postpartum?
  • collapse expand
    Avoiding stress to slow down hair shedding.
  • collapse expand
    Can you fight postpartum hair loss with the right shampoo?
  • collapse expand
    Does brushing hair hard and washing it make it worse?
  • collapse expand
    Can getting a haircut help with hair loss?
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