Hair loss after pregnancy

While you were pregnant, your hair probably looked especially full and shiny. Naturally, you become more concerned when, after the birth, you look at your hairbrush and find more hairs there again. But don't worry: postpartum hair loss is a natural reaction of your body, mostly caused by your hormones. We have summarized in this article what other causes there can be and what helps against postpartum hair loss.

Causes of hair loss after pregnancy

In the Pregnancy your estrogen and progesterone levels increase significantly. While estrogen contributes to hair growth, progesterone strengthens the hair. This results in most pregnant women losing less hair than usual. However, after childbirth, these two hormones quickly decrease again – and the hair accordingly falls out again. The Hormonal change is usually the main cause of hair loss after pregnancy. You often notice a few weeks after birth , that more and more hair is falling out of your head. However, it could also be that the hair loss only after several months or not at all, each body has its own pace. Especially when you stillness , the hormone change usually occurs a bit more slowly. Possibly, your hair loss only begins with the Weaning .

Are your hair mainly falling out at the parting and have they been thinning even before pregnancy? You might be suffering from hormonal hereditary hair loss . Your body then reacts sensitively to hormonal fluctuations, causing hair loss after childbirth to become more pronounced or to appear for the first time.

But not only hormones can be to blame for hair loss, but also an Iron deficiency and others nutritional deficiency symptoms . The iron requirement is increased during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Due to blood loss during childbirth and Rebleeding I'm Postpartum can quickly deplete iron reserves. Therefore, have your iron levels checked before and after childbirth by your doctor and ask how you can best meet your needs. During the blood test, it can also be checked whether other deficiencies, such as a vitamin B12 deficiency, are responsible for the hair loss.

An additional burden for your hair is Stress and Sleep deprivation. Your body first needs to recover from the strain of Birth recover and to the new daily life with a baby get used to it. It is completely normal that everything doesn't run smoothly from the start and that you as a family still need to find your roles. Always remember: nobody is perfect, and becoming a mother is an ongoing process where you are allowed to make mistakes.

How long does hair loss last after childbirth?

The hair loss usually stops completely on its own once your hormone balance has stabilized - this can three to six months either after pregnancy or only after a year.

If you still notice no improvement after this time or observe that you are experiencing extreme hair loss after childbirth, you should consult your doctor and find out the exact cause.

What helps against hair loss?

The bad news first: Unfortunately, there is no miracle cure that will stop hair loss overnight. Be patient with your body, which has just performed a small miracle. With a little Time and patience will soon return to normal. Now, it is especially important that you continue to feel comfortable. And now for the good news: with a few tips and tricks in your hair routine, you can support hair growth and minimize hair loss.

• Gentle Shampoos : Natural and soothing ingredients provide moisture to your scalp without causing irritation. A healthy scalp also benefits your hair, as this stimulates growth. Therefore, when choosing shampoos, make sure they are free of silicones, sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances and colorings.

• Gentle styling : Try to avoid heat as much as possible, for example from a blow dryer, straightening iron, or curling wand. It is gentler to squeeze the hair dry after washing, for example with an old cotton T-shirt, and let it air dry. Gentle combs or brushes detangle your hair without breakage and without much pulling. To prevent additional damage, you should also refrain from using chemical dyes.

• Neuer Haarschnitt : Now is the perfect time for a new feel-good look – whether a short haircut, bob, or layers. Get advice from your hairstylist on which cut best suits you and your changed hair situation.

• Balanced and healthy nutrition: Even your hair is happy about a adequate supply of vitamins and minerals . Special preparations against hair loss and dietary supplements should only be taken in consultation with your doctor. For example, vitex (chaste tree) is often recommended for hormonally caused hair loss. However, the plant can inhibit milk production, so you should not take it during breastfeeding.

• Peace and relaxation: Don't worry too much about your hair – stress leads to a vicious cycle. Create for yourself Breaks in everyday baby life and attempts adequate sleep to find. And if you have a moment of peace right now, let yourself be taken by your partner with a Kopfmassage pamper. This promotes blood circulation in the scalp and provides an extra boost of relaxation.

We hope we can help you with these tips and that you will soon be completely happy with your hair again!