Let’s talk postpartum hair loss!
A NORMAL and temporary experience for many new mothers includes losing hair postpartum. Medically, this is known as “Telogen Effluvium” and almost 50% of new mothers will experience this.. So if you do, you are NOT alone! This can be caused by estrogen levels, iron deficiency, and stress.
This is not always talked about openly, but we are here to bring it up so it can feel normalized, expected, or unalarming when this shift may occur. The good news is- usually this is temporary and resolves on its own within a year after birth. Therefore, it will likely fix itself!
What should you expect?
-
About 2-4 months postpartum, the shift in hormones may cause shedding in clumps.
-
This will peak at around 4 months Postpartum
Signs you may notice include
-
More hair in the brush, shower, or falling in your hands
-
Thinning at the temples or crown line
How can you help support hair growth?
-
Though having a baby may make this difficult, try to stay hydrated and eat regular meals
-
Vitamins! Focus on iron, zinc, vitamin D, biotin, and protein-enriched foods. Speak to your doctor to ask what they recommend!
-
Scalp massaging for a few minutes a day can increase circulation on the scalp to promote hair growth
-
Focus on stress levels and try to take short breaks or make small moments of intentional time when you can- even if that is to speak to a therapist!
This will pass! Let us normalize the experience together. This is a part of the way your body changes and recovers in the process of carrying a human inside of you! We are always here if you need to talk.