Why Is My Hair Falling Out After Having A Baby?

Pregnancy causes dramatic changes to your body and they don’t necessarily end when you give birth. According to the American Pregnancy Association, one postpartum symptom that 40 percent to 50 percent of new mothers experience is a sudden increase in hair loss. This is a result of hormonal readjustments in the months following the baby’s arrival, but it can be a surprising and even upsetting occurrence. It is completely normal, however, and according to Babycenter.com, most women find their hair growth returns to its pre-pregnancy pattern within months.

Causes

Hormone changes cause the majority of postpartum hair loss. Increased estrogen levels during pregnancy promote hair growth and inhibit shedding, so when estrogen levels drop in the first months after giving birth, the excess hair falls out as your body gradually re-establishes its natural growth patterns, according to the American Pregnancy Association. Additional factors such as stress and prolactin secretion while nursing can contribute to hair loss, writes Elise Olsen in her book, “Disorders of Hair Growth: Diagnosis and Treatment.”

Duration

The good news is that postpartum hair loss is temporary, and reverses itself naturally. Hair loss usually peaks three to four months after delivery, according to the American Pregnancy Association. The duration of the loss varies, but generally only lasts a few months. Normal hair loss patterns return within six to 12 months.

Exacerbating Factors

According to FamilyDoctor.org, you should avoid hair styles such as braids or ponytails that pull the hair taut. They increase hair loss and may damage your follicles, meaning your hair won’t grow back as thickly. Occasionally, post-pregnancy hair loss can be the result of an underlying condition such as hypothyroidism, advises the Berkley Parents Network, so if you have excessive hair loss, or it continues for more than a few months, you should ask your doctor for a thyroid test.

Nutritional Support

Eating well won’t stop post-natal hair loss, but good nutrition is important for your general health in the stressful first months of motherhood. The American Pregnancy Association recommends eating plenty of fruits and vegetables because antioxidents may protect follicles and encourage hair growth. It also suggests supplementing with antioxidant vitamins B, C and E, as well as zinc—a mineral that is known to promote healing.

Products and Styling

Treat your hair as gently as possible. Don’t use any harsh chemical products such as perm or relaxing solutions. You should also avoid over-brushing, stringent styling, hot rollers and excessive blow-drying, all of which will do more damage. The Berkeley Parents Network notes that some women find shorter styles easier to cope with, both for convenience and for added volume to compensate for temporary thinning.