During pregnancy, the body undergoes some significant changes. Some of these we have heard about and some, such as postpartum hair loss, are more unknown. But what is it about pregnancy and birth that can cause some women’s hair to fall out in large clumps? And what, if anything, can be done to stop or fix it?
Telogen gravidarum, or telogen effluvium, is the excessive shedding of hair after birth, and it usually starts between two and four months after the baby arrives. Despite the fact that it’s not spoken about that much, it affects 40 to 50% of new mothers.
Related: How to look after your skin during pregnancy
The cause
While a woman is pregnant, her hormones go into overdrive, and one hormone that is more prevalent than usual during this time is oestrogen. This oestrogen stops the hair from falling out, but after the baby is born, the mother’s hormone levels drop suddenly and this is when postpartum hair loss can occur.
And we’re not talking about just a few strands – it can fall out in big clumps. Breast-feeding can also be a contributing factor, as it increases the body’s levels of prolactin, which is also associated with hair loss.
Related: Losing hair? You’re not alone
Prevention
Sadly, there isn’t a way to prevent this hair loss. The good news is that it is only temporary and hair is generally back to normal within a year. In the interim, here are some ways to promote hair growth and make your hair seem thicker and fuller:
1. Use a volumising shampoo: They contain silicone-based polymers, which coat the hair strands to create an overall fuller look.
2. Avoid products that condition too much: These can contain ingredients that can weigh hair down, which makes it more obvious that the hair is thinner.
3. Go easy on your hair: Wear it loose where possible and, if you need to tie it up, don’t pull it back too tightly, as this causes tension and can pull the hair out.
4. Start taking a supplement: Biotin contains naturally occurring enzymes that help to promote hair growth, and can make it grow back thicker and healthier than ever.
PHOTO: iStock/Mehmet Hilmi Barcin
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