Everything you need to know about postpartum hair loss
January 8, 2024 2024-01-08 16:20Everything you need to know about postpartum hair loss
Everything you need to know about postpartum hair loss
Nearly half of women experience postpartum hair loss . Although completely normal, this phenomenon can worry some people. We explain everything you need to know about hair loss after childbirth and give you essential advice to better understand and manage this situation.
What is postpartum hair loss?
Postpartum hair loss , also known as postpartum alopecia, is a common phenomenon where a woman's hair falls out after giving birth. During this time, some people may notice significant volume loss or even sparse areas. On an emotional level, this hair loss is a source of stress, being associated with other physical changes caused by pregnancy, it can also decrease self-confidence. It is important to note that this postpartum hair loss is temporary and that the hair returns to normal a few months after giving birth.
But then, what causes this fall? A woman's body produces more hormones during pregnancy, including estrogen , which help keep hair in a prolonged growth phase, leading to less hair loss. This is why we often say that pregnant women have beautiful hair! However, hormonal levels fluctuate sharply back to normal after childbirth. This sudden change causes sudden loss of hair that was in the resting phase during pregnancy.
Focus on postpartum hormonal changes
Estrogen, progesterone, prolactin, oxytocin, and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) are the main hormones involved in the postpartum hormonal transition. These hormones are present at very high levels in the body during pregnancy to support the baby's growth and prepare the body for childbirth.
After childbirth, hormone levels decrease. For example, estrogen and progesterone levels drop quickly and return to their pre-pregnancy levels. Prolactin, which stimulates milk production, remains high to support breastfeeding, oxytocin is released during breastfeeding, while hCG declines rapidly after birth.
Because of this hormonal transition, the new mother experiences many physiological and emotional changes that can cause hair loss, mood swings, hot flashes and other symptoms...
What other factors can cause postpartum hair loss?
In addition to hormones, several other factors can influence postpartum hair loss . For example, hair loss can also be due to:
- Emotional and physical stress associated with childbirth.
- Adapting to a new life with baby.
- Lack of sleep.
- Lack of time to establish a good hair routine.
These different factors, associated with hormonal fluctuations, can be the source of postpartum hair loss.
How long does postpartum hair loss last?
The duration of postpartum hair loss varies from woman to woman. Typically, postpartum hair loss begins around two to three months after the baby is born. It often reaches its peak between four to six months after giving birth. The period of hair loss can last several weeks to several months, but it tends to gradually slow down.
In most women, hair growth returns to normal between six and twelve months following childbirth. Hair loss is temporary, most women return to normal hair density once hormonal levels stabilize. However the duration and intensity of hair loss can vary depending on different individual factors such as genetics, overall health and hair care used.
How to maintain the beauty of your hair after childbirth?
After giving birth, taking care of your hair is essential to regain radiant hair. First of all, a diet rich in vitamins and minerals is crucial for healthy hair. It is also advisable to opt for hair care products that are suitable for hair loss and safe during breastfeeding. Avoid external aggressions such as vigorous brushing, excessive use of heating appliances or aggressive chemical treatments. Certain food supplements, such as our anti-hair loss & growth complex , can help stimulate regrowth and strengthen hair, it is still important to seek medical advice before using it.
