Postpartum Hair Loss: All You Need to Know About it

During pregnancy and in the months following childbirth, a woman's body undergoes numerous changes, and one of the changes that causes concern is postpartum hair loss. What are the causes of this condition? And how can it be prevented? Keep reading to find out the answers.

What is Postpartum Hair Loss?

Postpartum hair loss is a common condition, affecting approximately 40 - 50% of women after childbirth, causing excessive and sudden hair loss due to fluctuations in hormone levels before and after pregnancy.

This condition is prevalent and can begin at any time after childbirth, but it usually begins about three to four months after giving birth.

Hair loss typically affects the scalp but can also involve the eyebrows and eyelashes.

What causes postpartum hair loss?

The main cause of postpartum hair loss is hormonal changes that occur during and after pregnancy. During pregnancy, estrogen and progesterone hormone levels rise, affecting the hair growth cycle. Hair remains in the growth phase longer than usual and does not enter the shedding phase, resulting in increased hair density, particularly in the third trimester.

However, after childbirth, estrogen and progesterone levels return to pre-pregnancy levels, and hair growth resumes its normal cycle, leading to increased hair shedding. The excess hair that did not shed during pregnancy starts to fall out simultaneously.

In addition, several factors can contribute to postpartum hair loss, including:

• Poor nutrition.
• Iron deficiency.
• Stress and anxiety.
• Endocrine disorders such as diabetes or hypothyroidism.
• High blood pressure, including preeclampsia and eclampsia.

You can accurately identify the underlying causes of hair loss by undergoing a comprehensive Hair loss test package offered by Blazma, which does not require fasting or any other conditions before the examination.

How long does postpartum hair loss last?

This condition is temporary, as it usually does not persist for more than 6 - 12 months, with hair loss peaking around four months after childbirth. 

After this period, hair returns to its normal growth cycle, and most women notice their hair is back to its pre-pregnancy fullness.

What Can You Do About Postpartum Hair Loss?

Postpartum hair loss cannot be treated, but the following tips can help your hair feel fuller and prevent further hair loss and damage:

• Choose a suitable shampoo and conditioner for your hair type, with a formula that promotes hair density and growth.
• Avoid applying conditioner to the scalp and only apply it to the hair ends.
• Choose suitable hairstyles and avoid styles that pull the hair tightly, such as ponytails or tight braids, as they can cause further hair loss.
• Avoid using hair straighteners, blow dryers, or any heat source on the hair as much as possible, as they damage the hair, leading to breakage and shedding.
• Follow a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, as they are rich in vitamins and minerals that promote hair growth and protect follicles.
• Take vitamins and supplements to support hair growth, such as biotin, iron, zinc, vitamin B, vitamin C, and vitamin D.
• Be gentle when combing your hair, using a wide-tooth comb instead of a brush, especially when the hair is wet.
• Avoid using chemicals such as dyes and hair straightening or curling products as much as possible.
• Minimize stress as much as possible, as it can increase hair loss.