Hair Loss After Pregnancy

Hair Loss After Pregnancy

An average of 40% to 50% of women suffers from postpartum hair loss after giving birth, according to the American Pregnancy Association. During pregnancy, elevated estrogen levels prevent hairs from falling out. 90% of hair grown is stimulated by estrogen, causing a pregnant mother to have thicker hair. However, soon after childbirth, the estrogen and progesterone levels will immediately return to normal postpartum levels. The hairs that stayed in during pregnancy begin to fall out, causing temporary but significant hair loss after pregnancy at the same time. There can be a loss of hundreds of hair per day.

Significant hair loss will occur around six to 12 weeks after giving birth. Hair loss will automatically return to normal as the estrogen levels recover. After one year, the hair follicles should return to normal and you should no longer be experiencing excessive hair loss. However, if you still experience excessive hair loss one year after giving birth, consult with a doctor - especially women who have a family history of female pattern baldness.

Helpful Tips for Postpartum Hair Loss

You can help prevent postpartum hair loss by maintaining a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy and after delivery:

• Get enough sleep.
• Exercise regularly.
• Consume a healthy diet and eat foods from all five food groups, especially foods rich in Zinc, to support your changing body.
• Maintain short hair to reduce tangles and hair loss.

Summary

In most situations, postpartum hair loss will correct itself once hormone levels return to normal. However, if you still experience excessive hair loss one year after giving birth, consult with a dermatologist from the Skin and Aesthetic Clinic at Bangkok Hospital Chiang Mai.