What is Postpartum Hair Loss?
Post partum hair loss, also called post-pregnancy alopecia, is when a lot of hair falls out after giving birth. This phenomenon, often referred to as diffuse hair loss or telogen effluvium, affects many women during the postpartum period.
It is normal to experience postpartum hair loss.
Hair typically regrows to its original thickness over time. This process can be concerning for some individuals.
Post pregnancy hair loss is not the only type of hair loss that can occur after pregnancy. Alopecia areata is a rare condition that causes sudden hair loss in specific patches on the scalp or body. The hair loss can be noticeable and may occur in small or large patches. Alopecia areata may need medical treatment and can have a different outcome.
If you are a woman who is losing hair after having a baby, it is recommended that you visit a dermatologist specializing in hair loss.
Does Everyone Experience Postpartum Hair Loss After Pregnancy?
No, not every woman experiences after birth hair loss after pregnancy. However, according to studies, up to 90% of women may experience some degree of postpartum hair loss.
Why Does Hair Loss Happen After Pregnancy?
A mix of elements – alterations in the hair cycle, hormonal shifts, and heightened stress collectively lead to postpartum hair shedding.
Hair follicles go through three stages: growth, transition, and rest. During pregnancy, a woman’s hair-growing phase is extended. Some hair follicles may keep growing for the entire duration of the pregnancy. However, after giving birth, these follicles enter the resting phase, leading to increased shedding of hair.
The body experiences a surge in hormones during pregnancy, which can affect hair growth patterns. After childbirth, hormone levels drop and trigger the shedding of hair that was retained during pregnancy.
When Postpartum Hair Loss starts?
It usually starts after 3-5 months after pregnancy. People sometimes notice it later, after 6-8 months.
How Long Does Postpartum Hair Loss Last?
Postpartum hair loss typically lasts for several months after giving birth. It commonly begins around three to six months postpartum and gradually resolves on its own. In many cases, postpartum hair loss stops by the time the baby is one year old.
However, the duration and severity of hair loss can vary from person to person. If you’re experiencing prolonged or excessive hair loss, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and reassurance.
How to Prevent Postpartum Hair Loss?
Preventing postpartum hair loss isn’t possible. New research shows that many things can affect how much hair a woman loses after giving birth. These things include having a premature baby, giving birth earlier than expected, experiencing preterm labor, and breastfeeding for a long time.
Can I Dye My Hair During Postpartum Hair Loss?
Yes, you can dye your hair during postpartum hair loss. There’s no evidence to suggest that dyeing your hair will worsen or prolong postpartum shedding. It’s important to be careful when dyeing your hair. Use gentle, ammonia-free dyes and do a patch test to check for allergies.
Is Postpartum Hair Loss Permanent?
Postpartum hair loss is typically temporary and resolves by the time the baby is 1 year old. However, if hair loss persists beyond this timeframe, it’s advisable to seek help from a dermatologist.
A dermatologist can provide a thorough evaluation, diagnose any underlying conditions, and recommend appropriate treatment options if necessary. If you’re experiencing prolonged postpartum hair loss, consulting a healthcare professional can offer reassurance and support in addressing your concerns.
Can you have postpartum hair loss after a miscarriage?
After a miscarriage, the body’s response can lead to increased hair shedding, a condition known as telogen effluvium. While it’s not the same as postpartum hair loss, the mechanism behind it is somewhat similar.
Do prenatal vitamins help with postpartum hair loss?
Prenatal vitamins are beneficial for overall health, especially during pregnancy and the postpartum period. While they contain essential nutrients that support healthy hair growth, there’s limited evidence to suggest that they specifically prevent or alleviate postpartum hair loss.
However, maintaining a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals can support overall hair health. Prenatal vitamins can contribute to this by providing important nutrients like folic acid, iron, and biotin, which are essential for healthy hair growth. So, while they may not directly address postpartum hair loss, prenatal vitamins can still be beneficial for overall well-being during this time.
Does biotin help postpartum hair loss?
There is currently no reliable data about biotin and postpartum hair loss.
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When should I worry about postpartum hair loss?
If hair loss continues for more than a year post-childbirth, it may suggest issues like chronic anemia or vitamin imbalances. These issues can result in chronic telogen effluvium.
Pregnancy might also expose or hasten the development of androgenetic alopecia (female pattern hair loss), which necessitates continuous treatment. If symptoms like itching, bumps, acne, or other signs are noticed, it’s vital to get a precise diagnosis from a board-certified dermatologist.
Does cutting your hair help with postpartum hair loss?
Shorter haircuts do not help with hair loss, but may make styling easier.
How to stop postpartum hair loss?
There are a few recommendations one should consider to handle postpartum hair loss:
1. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Prioritize a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, stay hydrated, and manage stress levels. These habits support overall hair health and may help minimize postpartum hair loss.
2. Gentle Hair Care: Opt for gentle hair care products and avoid excessive use of blow dryers. Avoid braiding or tight ponytails, which can contribute to hair breakage. Treat your hair with care to support the regrowth process. You may opt for volumizing shampoo specifically designed for thin hair.
3. Conditioning: Consider using a hair conditioner formulated for thin hair. Conditioning can help nourish and strengthen hair strands, making them more resilient to breakage and promoting healthier-looking hair.
4. Haircut Considerations: Discuss with your stylist to find a suitable haircut that complements your hair texture and preferences.
5. You can try different options to cover thinning hair and feel more confident. Some options include wigs, hairpieces, and camouflage products. These options can help you until your hair grows back.
6. Some people may benefit from office-based procedures for hair loss. In our experience, platelet-rich plasma injections (PRP) and laser treatments (Keralase) may facilitate the process of hair regrowth.
