The causes and remedies of postpartum hair loss
We women are very sensitive when it comes to our hair. For most of us it is a symbol of femininity and can represent a sort of "mirror" of how we feel both physically and with ourselves. No wonder, then, that postpartum hair loss catches us off guard and makes us quite insecure. After all, just a few weeks ago we had thick, strong hair, just like our dream hair.
However, there is no reason to panic if hair falls out more often after childbirth. Because hair loss after pregnancy, medically called postpartum effluvium, is a normal reaction of the body.
Today we will find out the reasons why women lose their hair after childbirth, when does this natural reaction begin, how long it lasts and what can help against it.
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What are the causes of hair loss after pregnancy?
The reason for hair loss after pregnancy is to be attributed once again to hormones, or rather, to the hormone estrogen. In fact, during pregnancy the woman's body produces more estrogen. This stimulates hair growth, but it also affects so that the hair does not fall out in the "usual" times, that is to say that it strengthens and becomes more resistant.The result is a thicker and fuller hair, with fewer lengths that remain trapped in the brush while combing.
However, after the baby is born, the estrogen level drops. This means that hair growth is reduced - actually only at the pre-pregnancy level - and the hair is not as strong as it was before. This means that we only apparently lose more hair after giving birth, because we simply have had more hair in the last months of gestation.
When does hair start to fall out after giving birth?
In the weeks following the birth of the baby, the amount of estrogen in the body drops to the "normal" level. Most women notice increased hair loss around two to three months after pregnancy. This is also completely independent of the pregnancy. whether a woman is breastfeeding or not.
How long does post pregnancy hair loss last?
Hormone-induced hair loss after pregnancy is usually regulated within the first year after the baby is born. The estrogen level has normalized and all the "extra hair" has fallen out. In general, hair grows and falls out as it did before pregnancy.
If the increase in hair loss continues after the first year, it may be useful to ask your gynecologist or dermatologist for help, because this phenomenon can be a sign of a lack of nutrients that are essential for the health of the hair.
What can help with postpartum hair loss?
Hence, hair loss after birth is a natural reaction of the body and not a sign of a disease. Therefore, no countermeasures are needed to prevent or delay hair loss.
Yet there are factors that further promote hair loss after pregnancy. First, psychological stress can be one of the main reasons. If the woman feels uncomfortable and stressed after giving birth, this can lead to an "accentuation of hair loss. The" do-it-yourself "remedy therefore means more rest. Sometimes it seems easier and more mundane than it actually is. reality, especially for a new mother.
In addition to more rest, there are medications that could cause even more hair loss. However, their intake should always be coordinated and approved by the referring gynecologist and, ideally, should only be started after the baby is weaned.
A few more suggestions ...
As we have seen, post partum effluvium is a natural phenomenon that resolves itself without the need for special remedies, but letting time and our organism take their course. However, there are products, especially shampoos, hair lotions or conditioners, that help make this fall more gradual.
One of the most recommended is certainly the RestivOil Activplus Strengthening Shampoo for Hair, available on Amazon for only € 8.89. It is a product that thanks to biomimetic keratin strengthens the capillary scalp and fine and damaged hair, giving shine to the hair.
The various products can help, but the best remedy will remain patience. Be patient and enjoy your first year as a mom, because this time frame will fly really fast and never come back.
