A lot of new mothers are really surprised when they start losing a lot of hair a few months after having a baby. They find hair on their pillow in the shower or on their hairbrush. This can be really scary especially when it seems like they are losing hair than usual.
The good thing is that postpartum hair fall is something that a lot of women go through after pregnancy. It is usually a thing and it is part of the bodys way of recovering after childbirth.
Understanding why postpartum hair loss happens can really help women feel better during this time.
What Is Postpartum Hair Fall?
Postpartum hair fall is when women lose a lot of hair after having a baby. This is not really hair loss. More like the hair is shedding really fast because of the changes in hormones after pregnancy.
Women usually notice that they are losing hair when they wash or brush it. They also see hair on their pillows and clothes. Their ponytail might look thinner. Their hair might not be as full as it used to be.
This kind of shedding is usually temporary. Does not mean that women will go bald.
Why Does Postpartum Hair Fall Happen?
The main reason is the change in hormones. When women are pregnant their estrogen levels go up a lot. This means that more hair stays in the growing phase for longer.
Because of this womens hair might look thicker when they are pregnant. They might not lose much hair as they usually do. Their hair might feel fuller and more voluminous.
After the baby is born the estrogen levels go down to what they were before pregnancy. This means that a lot of hair starts shedding at the time, which can be really noticeable.
When Does Postpartum Hair Fall Start?
Most women start noticing that they are losing hair between two and four months after having their baby. This can be different for everyone.
Some women might start losing hair later than this. Every womans body is a little different.
How Long Does Postpartum Hair Fall Last?
For women the hair shedding gets better within six to twelve months after having a baby. This happens slowly over time.
Womens hair does not usually go back to normal away. As their hair growth cycle gets back to normal new hair starts growing. Their hair gets thicker again.
Some women might see new hairs growing around their hairline as they recover.
What Does Postpartum Hair Loss Look Like?
Postpartum hair shedding usually means that womens hair is thinner over not just in one spot.
They might see hair shedding all over their scalp. Their hair might look thinner around their temples. They might not have much hair as they used to.
This kind of hair loss is different from conditions that can cause patchy hair loss.
Factors That Can Make Hair Fall Worse
Hormonal changes are the reason for postpartum hair fall. Other things can make it worse. These include:
• Being really tired after having a baby
• Not getting sleep
• Feeling stressed or anxious
• Not eating well
• Being sick or having an infection
• Losing weight quickly after pregnancy
Taking care of these things can really help womens hair health.
Can Breastfeeding Cause Hair Loss?
A lot of mothers wonder if breastfeeding is causing their hair to fall out.
Postpartum hair shedding is usually because of the hormonal changes after pregnancy not because of breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding mothers should still eat well to take care of themselves and their baby.
How to Support Healthy Hair During Postpartum Recovery
Eat a Balanced Diet
Eating a diet is really important for hair health.
Women should try to eat foods that’re rich in:
• Protein
• Iron
• Zinc
• Fruits and vegetables
• Healthy fats
A good diet can really help women recover after having a baby.
Get Enough Protein
Hair is made of a protein called keratin.
Women can get protein from foods like:
• Eggs
• Fish
• Chicken
• Beans
Consider Postnatal Supplements
Taking supplements can also be helpful.
Some doctors recommend that women keep taking their vitamins after they have their baby.
Be Gentle With Your Hair
Women should try not to use much heat on their hair.
They should:
• Use a wide-tooth comb
• Avoid pulling their hair too tight
• Minimize excessive heat styling
Manage Stress
Taking care of a baby can be really hard both physically and emotionally.
Women should try to find ways to rest and take care of themselves.
What Not to Do
Women should not panic if they are losing a lot of hair. This is usually a thing and it does not mean they are going bald.
They should not try to diet much because this can make their hair fall out even more. They should focus on eating and taking care of their body.
They should not use many hair products because this can make their hair fall out even more.
A simple gentle routine is usually the thing.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Women should see a doctor if:
• They are losing a lot of hair and it is not getting better
• They have patchy bald spots
• Their hair loss is really severe
• They have other symptoms that concern them
A doctor can help women figure out if there is something going on that is causing their hair to fall out.
Can Hair Grow Back After Postpartum Hair Fall?
Yes it usually can.
Postpartum hair shedding is usually temporary and womens hair usually grows back over time.
Women just need to be patient and take care of their body. They should eat well be gentle with their hair and try to manage their stress.
Final Thoughts
Postpartum hair fall is a part of recovering after pregnancy. It can be scary to lose a lot of hair but it is usually temporary.
Womens hair gets better within a few months as their hormone levels get back to normal. Eating well being gentle with their hair and getting rest can really help women recover during this time.
Disclaimer
This article is for information and should not be taken as medical advice. Postpartum hair fall is common. Sometimes it can be a sign of something else going on. Women should see a doctor if they are worried about their hair loss or their overall health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When does postpartum hair fall usually start?
Most women start noticing that they are losing hair between two and four months after having their baby.
2. How long does postpartum hair loss last?
Postpartum hair fall usually gets better within six to twelve months after having a baby.
3. Does breastfeeding cause postpartum hair loss?
No breastfeeding does not usually cause postpartum hair loss. It is usually because of the changes after pregnancy.
4. Will my hair grow back after postpartum shedding?
Yes it usually will. Womens hair usually grows back over time as their hormone levels get back to normal.
5. When should I see a doctor about postpartum hair loss?
Women should see a doctor if their hair loss is really severe or if it is not getting better after a year. They should also see a doctor if they have symptoms like fatigue or thyroid problems.
