During pregnancy, hormone changes can drastically affect a woman’s body; changes in hair growth are no exception. After pregnancy, hormone levels change again and may increase hair loss and eventually, hair regrowth. Although each woman may notice different results, there are some common changes in hair that many women experience soon after giving birth.
Hair-Growth Cycle
A normal hair-growth cycle consists of a growing and resting phase before it eventually falls out. According to the March of Dimes, approximately 90 percent of hair is in the growing phase while approximately 10 percent is in the resting phase at any given time. During pregnancy hair grows more quickly due to hormonal changes; however hair will likely grow at a normal rate again postpartum.
Hair Loss
Hair loss soon after pregnancy is common and likely temporary. When hormone levels return to normal levels after giving birth, excess hair loss or shedding may occur, affecting up to 50 percent of women, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Hair loss typically is greatest approximately three to four months postpartum. Some women will hold onto excess hair until after they discontinue breastfeeding.
Although losing hair can be upsetting for many women, it’s important to remember that the excessive hair loss after pregnancy makes up for reduced hair loss during pregnancy. It isn’t permanent and shouldn’t cause bald spots.
Hair Regrowth
Excessive hair loss after pregnancy will eventually cease and hair should return to a normal hair growth cycle. The hair that was shed will eventually grow back. Maintaining adequate nutrition after pregnancy will help enhance hair regrowth, especially for women who are losing large amounts of nutrients through breastfeeding.
Hair Regrowth Rate
According to the March of Dimes, hair typically regrows at a rate of about 1/2 inch per month. After experiencing postpartum hair loss, hair regrowth should return to a normal growth rate approximately six to 12 months after a pregnant woman delivers her baby, according to the American Pregnancy Association.
Enhance Regrowth
Although it may be impossible to avoid hair loss after pregnancy there are some ways to help reduce hair loss, stimulate regrowth and keep hair healthy. Avoiding excessive heat from blow dryers, curling irons or flat irons can help, so can being gentle with hair when it’s when and fragile. Proper hormone balance is also essential for hair proper hair regrowth; following up with health care provider after delivery is important. Most importantly, eating a well-balanced diet containing flavanoids, antioxidants and supplementing with vitamins and minerals if necessary will help reduce hair loss and help stimulate regrowth, according to the American Pregnancy Association.
