New mothers might panic when shampooing or brushing their hair yields significant hair shedding. They might wonder if dietary inadequacies or breastfeeding caused the hair loss. While timing might appear to link hair loss and breastfeeding, pregnancy and childbirth actually carry the blame for the temporary condition. Postpartum hair loss occurs equally among breastfeeding and formula-feeding mothers and typically resolves itself without intervention.
Significance
Postpartum hair loss is a normal, temporary side effect of childbirth and occurs as your hormones return to their pre-pregnancy levels. The BabyCenter Medical Advisory Board says that 85 to 95 percent of your hair grows, while the other 5 to 15 percent rests during a normal growth cycle. The resting hair falls out in small amounts throughout the day--often while you brush or shampoo it. Throughout pregnancy, more hair enters the growing phase and less the resting one--often leading to a full head of luxuriant, thick hair. When estrogen dips after giving birth, many hairs rapidly enter the resting phase.
Lactation consultant Kelly Bonyata, owner of the breastfeeding advice site Kellymom.com, unequivocally states that it has nothing to do with breastfeeding.
Time Frame
You can expect postpartum hair loss to begin around three months postpartum, when estrogen dips, and more hair enters the resting stage. Most women find that this rapid shedding tapers off around six to 12 months after childbirth. Expect your hair loss to follow this pattern, whether you breastfeed or formula feed.
Misconceptions
The BabyCenter Advisory Board cautions that not all women experience significant changes in their hair during or after pregnancy. Many women fail to experience thicker hair as a side effect, and others do not lose hair after giving birth. Hair loss tends to happen most dramatically in women with longer hair. Because breastfeeding and postpartum hair loss are unrelated conditions, discontinuing nursing will not stop the hair loss.
Prevention/Solution
Visit your beautician for a haircut to make your hair appear thicker. Many moms find that shorter cuts are easier to manage and more flattering during this period of transition. Shampoos and conditioners designed to thicken hair might improve your hair's appearance, but try to shampoo only when necessary to decrease hair loss. The Mayo Clinic recommends avoiding hair dryers, curling irons and harsh chemicals. Bonyata suggests taking a multivitamin.
Warning
If your hair loss appears excessive or fails to stop by the time your baby turns 1, Bonyata recommends seeking a medical evaluation. Instead of postpartum hormones, the culprit could be iron-deficiency anemia or hypothyroidism, both easily treatable conditions that can cause hair shedding.
Member Comments