Bringing a beautiful new life into the world is a remarkable experience, but it can also come with some unexpected changes, one of which is post-partum hair loss. While it's entirely normal, it can be disconcerting for new mothers who are already navigating a world of changes. In this blog post, we'll delve into what post-partum hair loss is, why it occurs, and how you can manage it with confidence.
1. What Is Postpartum Hair Loss?
Postpartum hair loss, often referred to as postpartum shedding or Acute telogen effluvium, is the temporary loss of hair that can occur after giving birth. It's a common experience that affects many new mothers.
2. Why Does Postpartum Hair Loss Occur?
Several factors contribute to postpartum hair loss:
Hormonal Changes: During pregnancy, increased hormone levels delay the hairs normal shedding phase. However, after childbirth, hormone levels revert back to normal, causing hairs that didn’t shed during pregnancy to enter the resting phase together and subsequently shed some 2 to 3 months later.
Stress: The physical and emotional stress of childbirth and caring for a newborn can impact your body. Stress can push a significant number of hair follicles into the resting phase, leading to hair loss.
4. When Does It Start and How Long Does It Last?
Postpartum hair loss typically begins around three months after giving birthor once breastfeeding has stopped and may continue for several months. It often peaks at around six months postpartum but gradually resolves as your hormones stabilise.
5. How does post-partum hair loss present?
Hairs that were in the prolonged growing phase start to shed. This shedding typically happens when hair is washed or brushed. Post-partum hair loss can be diffuse loss throughout the scalp and tends to be more noticeable along the front hairline.
Managing Postpartum Hair Loss:
While postpartum hair loss is a natural part of the postnatal journey, there are steps you can take to manage it effectively:
1. Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support healthy hair growth. Focus on foods high in omega 3 fatty acids , iron, and protein.
2. Hair Care: Don’t be afraid to wash or brush your hair. It may feel that the action of washing and brushing is causing the shedding but this is not the case. Once hairs have transition from the growing to the resting phase, they can remain anchored within the follicle until the hair is washed or brushed. Always ensure that hair is detangled with care, this will help decrease tangling of the hair due to the increased shedding.
3. Stress Management: Reducing stress through relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing. These can all help to prevent the prolonging of the post-partum hair loss.
4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Be cautious with hair treatments and products. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the hair.
5. Professional Advice: Consult a Trichologist if you're concerned about excessive hair loss or if it persists beyond six months, this could be an indication that there are other underline issues affecting your hair such as low ferritin, thyroid disruption or other vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
Postpartum hair loss is a common and temporary condition that many new mothers experience. Understanding why it occurs and how to manage it can help you navigate this aspect of postnatal life with confidence. Remember, it's a natural part of the journey towards motherhood, and your hair will return to its pre-pregnancy state with time.
Embrace the beauty of motherhood, including its unique challenges, and know that you're not alone in your postpartum hair loss journey.
CURLiD Recommended Products
Pre shampoo detangling mask: Helps prevent breakage and reduces tangles.
Hair gain range: Helps support and re-establish the growing phase in the hair growth cycle.
Good wash day towel: Gentle on the hair, help decrease frizz and only remove excess water leaving the hair hydrated.
CURLiD Satin bonnet: Helps prevent tangles.
CURLiD Detangling Brush: The flex technology design helps detangle the hair with ease.