Post-Partum Hair Woes: A Mom’s Guide To Understanding The Signs, Causes, And Effects Of Hair Loss After Delivery
It's just hormones!
Congratulations on your new bundle of joy! As you settle into motherhood, you may start to notice changes in your body. One common change that many new moms experience is postpartum hair loss. This condition can be alarming and frustrating, but it’s entirely normal and temporary. Let’s dive into what postpartum hair loss is, how it occurs, and how to deal with it.
What is Postpartum Hair Loss?
Postpartum hair loss is the excessive shedding of hair that many women experience after giving birth. This condition can last anywhere from a few months to a year and can be a significant source of stress for new moms. While it may be alarming to see clumps of hair in the shower or on your brush, rest assured that this is a normal part of the postpartum experience.
Also Read: Understanding Hair Porosity: What Is It? How To Tackle This Haircare Woe?
How Does Hair Grow?
Before we dive into the details of postpartum hair loss, let’s take a closer look at how hair grows. The growth of hair occurs through three distinct phases, which are known as anagen, catagen, and telogen.
1. During the anagen phase, the hair follicle is actively generating new hair, making it the active growth phase. The duration of this phase is variable, ranging from two to seven years, and can differ among individuals.
2. The catagen phase is a short transitional phase that lasts about ten days. In this phase, the hair follicle ceases to generate new hair.
3. The telogen phase is the resting phase, during which the hair follicle remains dormant for three to four months. After the telogen phase, the hair falls out, and the cycle starts anew.
What are the Signs of Postpartum Hair Loss?
The most common sign of postpartum hair loss is excessive shedding. You may notice clumps of hair in the shower or on your brush, or you may see thinning hair along your hairline. While this can be distressing, it’s essential to remember that it’s a normal part of the postpartum experience.
What Causes Postpartum Hair Loss?
Postpartum hair loss is caused by a shift in hormone levels after giving birth. During pregnancy, estrogen levels are high, which can prolong the anagen phase and result in thicker, fuller hair. However, after giving birth, estrogen levels drop significantly, causing the hair to transition more quickly from the anagen phase to the telogen phase. This results in excessive shedding and thinning hair.
How Long Does Postpartum Hair Loss Last?
Postpartum hair loss typically lasts between six and twelve months, although some women may experience it for a shorter or longer period. It’s important to remember that this is a temporary condition and that your hair will eventually return to its pre-pregnancy state.
Also Read: Exclusive: Expert Trichologist On The Most Common Haircare Myths And How to Deal With Hairfall
How is Postpartum Hair Loss Treated?
Unfortunately, there’s no cure for postpartum hair loss. However, there are some things you can do to manage the condition and help your hair grow back more quickly. Here are some tips:
1. Be Gentle with Your Hair: Avoid tight hairstyles, harsh chemicals, and heat styling tools, as these can damage your hair and make postpartum hair loss worse.
2. Eat a Healthy Diet: A healthy diet is essential for healthy hair growth. Make sure you’re getting plenty of protein, vitamins, and minerals to nourish your hair from the inside out.
3. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is crucial for healthy hair growth.
Post-partum hair loss is just one of the many changes that come with motherhood. It’s normal, it’s temporary, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of. By taking care of your hair and giving it the nourishment it needs, you can help it grow back stronger and healthier than ever before.
