Understanding post-pregnancy hair loss

The hair loss that occurs after the birth of a mother's child is not abnormal. It does not affect every mother, and hair behaves differently from one pregnancy to another. Most women affected by post-pregnancy hair loss recover their original hair 6 to 12 months after the birth of their child. What causes this type of hair loss? Here are several elements of an answer.

To encourage and speed up hair regrowth, PRP in Tunisia is a treatment commonly used by new mothers troubled by post-pregnancy hair loss. If you are considering this treatment, ask Dr Seffen's advice as to whether it would suit you.

Understanding post-pregnancy hair loss

Hormonal change (oestrogen and progesterone)

Hormones have a great influence on hair growth. During pregnancy and after childbirth, a woman's body goes through many hormonal upheavals, including significant rises and falls in oestrogen and progesterone levels.

Stages of hair growth

Because of all these hormonal changes, the normal stages and cycles of hair growth change. There are 3 phases of hair growth: the anagen phase, the catagen phase and the telogen phase. After childbirth, when hormone levels return to normal, some women see more than the usual 10% of their hair enter the telogen phase, the phase in which the follicles rest and the hair falls before regrowth.

Iron deficiency

Another factor that can contribute to hair loss after pregnancy is iron deficiency. Pregnant women are at increased risk of iron deficiency, so it matters to make sure enough iron is taken in before and after pregnancy. Remember that taking vitamin C at the same time as iron-rich foods or supplements helps the body absorb iron.

Thyroid problems

There appears to be a link between low iron and thyroid problems. Disturbance of thyroid function has a bearing on hair loss. After pregnancy, and particularly if iron levels are low, doctors often assess a woman's thyroid function.

The good news is that not all women are affected by hair loss after pregnancy. Moreover, when it does happen, the hair loss is temporary. Major hormonal changes are part of pregnancy. If you are affected by significant hair loss after your pregnancy, do not hesitate to mention it to your doctor.