Biotin And Prenatal Hair Growth

Biotin is a water-soluble, B-complex vitamin. It is essential in helping enzymes -- substances that create a chemical reaction in the body -- to break down fats and carbohydrates into energy your body can use. But perhaps biotin is more popularly known for claims that it can promote hair growth. This may be especially appealing for pregnant women who may experience hair changes during pregnancy.

Pregnancy Hair

Being pregnant can have several health and beauty benefits. There is the "pregnancy glow" in which your skin appears brighter due to increased blood circulation. Then there is also the perk of a voluminous head of hair. A thick mane is attributed to an increase in the hormone estrogen. Estrogen stimulates the hair growth, and keeps hair in the growing phase.

Hair Loss and Pregnancy

When hair loss does occur, it usually happens after giving birth. This is because all estrogen levels begin to return to normal, causing all the extra hair grown during pregnancy to eventually fall out. This is normal and temporary, and normal hair growth and loss cycles usually return within six to 12 months.

However, some women may notice their hair thinning while pregnant. This may be due to a decrease in biotin levels in the body. This is a natural occurrence during pregnancy, since a baby in utero requires a large amount of nutrients, like biotin, to develop. As many as 50 percent of pregnant women may experience biotin deficiency while pregnant.

Other Reasons for Hair Loss

There are other reproductive reasons for a woman to lose her hair. Changes that involve a shift in hormone levels can trigger hair loss. This includes stopping birth control pills, which contain hormones, miscarriage, abortion, and stillbirth.

Biotin Sources

If you are pregnant and experiencing hair loss, talk with your doctor to find out how to treat it. If biotin is an option for you, you can get a good amount of biotin from foods that you may already be eating: egg yolks, whole grains, beans, bananas, nuts, cauliflower, and mushrooms. You may also consider taking biotin supplements, as well as prenatal vitamins that contain biotin.

Biotin Dosage

The adequate intake of biotin for pregnant women 18 years and older is 30 mcg per day. But be sure to discuss which dosage is right for you with doctor, since dosage may vary depending on your health and age.

Other Ways for a Healthier Mane

There are other ways to reduce hair loss during pregnancy and post-pregnancy. When it comes to hair care, use shampoos and conditioners that contain biotin and silica. Also, don't put your hair in cornrows, braids, tight rollers, pigtails or ponytails, and don't use hair weaves. After washing your hair, avoid combing it with a fine-tooth comb. Use the cool setting when blow drying your hair. Of course, a healthy diet full of vegetables and fruits can protect hair follicles and promote hair growth, in addition to other overall health benefits.