Having a child is often an exciting and invigorating time of anyone’s life, but it can also be extremely stressful for mothers. Pregnancy comes with numerous physiological changes and can have some surprising effects, some of which could require a visit to the dermatologist. But is it normal to experience postpartum hair loss?
Causes of Hair Loss
During pregnancy, the body experiences a number of physiological changes. Namely, hormone levels are constantly fluctuating during pregnancy, and this is a significant reason why women experience postpartum hair loss. Having higher levels of estrogen can increase the amount of hair a woman produces, which contributes to the “pregnancy glow” and thicker hair. After birth, estrogen levels return to normal, which can result in the hair being “shed.”
Hair Loss Is Common
While some women may notice hair loss more than others due to hair thickness or texture, nearly every woman will experience hair loss during or after a pregnancy. The hair loss will decrease over time and will return to its normal thickness between six months and a year after giving birth.
How to Address Hair Loss
The best way to address postpartum hair loss is to be extra attentive to the hair that isn’t falling out. Avoid brushing too much or using elastic that could put unnecessary strain on the hair. Hair can also be restored through female pattern hair loss treatments.
Cause for Concern
Is there ever a point that postpartum hair loss is a cause for concern? If hair hasn’t returned after a year, there may be other factors contributing to hair loss. Our physicians at The Dermatology Clinic can moderate this hair loss through restoration techniques and treatments.
Postpartum hair loss may not be a cause for concern, but it also doesn’t have to mean not looking your best. For cosmetic solutions, schedule an appointment with The Dermatology Clinic or call us at (225) 769-7546 today!
