Experiencing hair loss after pregnancy is quite normal and affects many new mothers. During pregnancy, estrogen levels rise sharply, which affects the natural growth cycle of the hair. Learn more about what happens in the body and how to prevent hair loss.Many people get their hair back after pregnancy on their own — but it can take up to a year after giving birth.
Before we get into the question of why do people lose hair after pregnancy, we need to talk about what happens to hair during pregnancy.
Normally, hairs are in three different phases: the growth phase, the resting phase and the shedding phase. During pregnancy, the increased estrogen levels lead to the prolongation of both the growth and resting phases. This means that fewer hairs than usual fall out, making the hair feel thicker, fuller and more shiny. In fact, the total volume of hair on the head can increase by an estimated up to 38%. Many women find that they have their best hair during pregnancy.
After giving birth, hormone levels change again, and when estrogen levels return to normal, the body releases the hair it previously held. This results in a temporary hair loss called postpartum hair loss, and which is medically referred to as Telogen effluvium. A similar kind of female hair loss It can also occur in connection with other physical or psychological stress.
Hair loss as a result of pregnancy usually begins between three to six months after delivery. Does breastfeeding cause hair loss? No, on the contrary, hair loss when breastfeeding usually does not happen, but for some it can even take longer if you breastfeed. Since breastfeeding affects the hormonal balance, hair loss can be postponed until you stop breastfeeding completely or when you start introducing solid foods and gruel. Then there is often a change in hormonal status that can trigger the hair to begin to fall out.
For most women, hair begins to return to its normal growth cycle within 6 to 12 months after giving birth. What happens is that the hairs retained during pregnancy, due to the high estrogen levels, suddenly begin to fall off when hormone levels normalize.
In the meantime, you can help the body by eating a nutritious and balanced diet. Hair grows from within, and after being pregnant, the body's stores of important nutrients such as iron, folic acid and vitamin B12 may be deficient. By replenishing with proper nutrition, drinking plenty of water and avoiding nutritional deficiencies, the hair will have better conditions to recover.
It is also wise to take care of your hair with extra care by avoiding hard brushes, heating tools and tight hairstyles that tear the hair. Stress also plays a big role, being a new mom is demanding, and high stress levels can cause you to lose even more hair. Therefore, try to prioritize recovery and sleep.
Here are some simple but effective tips that can help stimulate hair regrowth and give a feeling of fuller and stronger hair after giving birth.
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