Hair Loss After Childbirth: Causes and Treatment

Postpartum Hair Loss: What to Do?

During pregnancy, a woman’s hair often becomes better than usual – thick, voluminous, shiny, and grows faster. Later, she may notice that after giving birth, her hair starts to fall out significantly. Postpartum hair loss is a very common problem.

Why Does Hair Fall Out Significantly After Childbirth?

There are several reasons

Physiological

During pregnancy, the level of estrogen increases in the body. This hormone prolongs the hair’s lifespan and its growth phase. Postpartum hair loss is a natural process. At this time, the amount of estrogen returns to normal. The hairs whose lifespan was prolonged begin to fall out.

Androgenetic Alopecia

Genetic predisposition. In this case, alopecia occurs closer to menopause, but it can be triggered by hormonal changes and disruptions during pregnancy (and postpartum). In this situation, it is necessary to consult a trichologist. They will select the necessary methods and medications.

Symptoms:

• Hair loss lasts for more than a year.
• Hair becomes brittle and dull (thinner than it was).
• The parting ‘shines’.
• No new hair grows in place of the lost hair.

You can visually compare hair thickness in a photo taken a year earlier.

Stress and Exhaustion

Childbirth is a significant strain on the nervous system. Some babies are restless. A newborn requires constant attention both day and night, leading to sleep deprivation. If the woman is inexperienced, even more tension arises.

Micronutrient Deficiency

A deficiency in protein and vitamins arises from inadequate nutrition. In late pregnancy, doctors monitor a woman’s weight. After childbirth, a woman may be focused on her figure. Dieting may be enforced (as recommended by a specialist). This can trigger hair loss.

Iron-deficiency Anemia

During pregnancy, blood volume increases, while viscosity decreases. The hemoglobin level decreases. Taking vitamins helps normalize it. Hemoglobin can also drop if a woman lost a lot of blood during childbirth or if the pregnancy had complications.

Endocrine System Disorders

In this case, hair loss continues for more than a year. Symptoms of endocrine system disorders include dizziness and headaches, swelling, acne, blood pressure fluctuations, significant weight gain or loss. An endocrinologist can help resolve the issue.

Anesthesia

Postpartum hair loss can occur due to anesthesia during childbirth and cesarean section. The issue typically resolves itself within a few months.

If you have doubts, consult a doctor. They will help identify the root of the problem and address it. For significant bald patches, see a trichologist.

What to do if you experience hair loss after childbirth?

Postpartum recovery takes time. A comprehensive approach is important.

• Proper sleep and nutrition, and rest. Some household chores and baby care can occasionally be delegated to the husband or entrusted to grandparents.
• Vitamins. Regular complexes are not suitable. Supplements for pregnant women are needed. A doctor can help select everything necessary.
• Psychological support from loved ones is important. If that’s not enough and emotional issues persist, consulting a psychotherapist is advisable.
• Yoga promotes relaxation and speeds up recovery. The website momslab.com is created for self-practice at home.
• Hair ties, tight hairstyles, and blow-drying damage hair. Instead of metal combs, it’s better to use wooden ones.
• Gentle head massage stimulates blood circulation, relaxes, and relieves eye strain.

Spicy masks made of pepper and mustard can be used, but carefully. If you have thin skin and sensitivity, it’s better to avoid this idea.

If hair loss is excessive and very concerning, it’s better to consult a doctor. They will prescribe the necessary tests, identify the cause of the problem, and help to resolve it.

On momslab.com there is a blog with useful information for moms, a 12-week recovery course, and a free Telegram chat.