Pregnancy Hair Loss Is NormalSource: American Chronicle by Subodh Jain Date: 11/16/07
Although
it is not as common as after birth, hair loss in pregnancy is
prevalent. Many of the prevention and treatment methods that can be
applied to hair loss following pregnancy can be used during pregnancy
as well. There are just a couple of precautionary measures you will
need to take during pregnancy. Hair loss after pregnancy is just as
common as hair loss
during pregnancy. At both times, hair loss is
typically caused by surges of hormones, and also the body's focus on
the pregnancy above all else. Hair loss may not be what most women
expect, but it's really nothing to be embarrassed about, either. If you
are experiencing pregnancy related hair loss, just talk to other women
who have had one or more pregnancies and you'll find out that you
aren't alone!
Is there abnormal hair loss during pregnancy?
Hair loss that is connected to pregnancy usually occurs after
delivery. During pregnancy, an increased number of hairs go into the
resting phase, which is part of the normal hair loss cycle. This
condition is not serious enough to cause bald spots or permanent hair
loss, and should begin to diminish within 3-4 months after delivery. If
you feel that you are experiencing unusual hair loss while you are
pregnant, this may be due to a vitamin or mineral deficiency.
Why does this happen after pregnancy?
During pregnancy, the female body produces high levels of Estrogen
to help the growth and health of your baby and of you! This increased
level of Estrogen causes more hair growth by sending signals to the
follicles. This also speeds up your metabolism, sending more nutrients
everywhere in your body, including your scalp.
Many women actually experience hair growth during pregnancy, their
hair appearing shiny and lustrous, but then experience hair loss after
the pregnancy. This is perfectly natural and most often the changes are
only temporary. When the hormone levels begin to re-adjust after the
birth, the excess hair grown during the pregnancy falls out.
Some of the most crucial vitamins include Vitamin B, Vitamin C and
Vitamin E. Including a high amount of fruits and vegetables will supply
you with many of these vitamins and minerals needed to maintain your
health and prevent hair loss. You should also be taking a daily vitamin
of some sort every morning.
While you do not always have complete control over hair loss and
your body during pregnancy, taking care of your hair can help reduce
the chances of you losing hair. Certain hairstyles should not be worn
during pregnancy because of the stress it puts on your hair. Some of
these hairstyles include braids, cornrows, and pigtails. You should
also try to avoid getting perms and getting your
hair colored.
The kinds of shampoos and conditioners used during pregnancy can
also affect whether or not you lose hair and how much you lose. There
are specific brands that are better than others, which you should ask a
physician about. But it is recommended that you use shampoos and
conditioners that contain biotin and silica.
Post-pregnancy Fallout
After the baby comes, don’t be surprised if all that beautiful new
growth begins to fall out. Many women notice increased shedding from
about 3 to 6 months after delivery, which is simply a sign of the body
adjusting as hormone levels return to normal. It may take a couple of
hair growth cycles (up to several years) before your texture completely
returns to normal, especially if you wear your hair long.
Remember that everyone’s body – and hair – reacts differently to
pregnancy. Have fun with the changes and remember, they’re only
temporary.
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