Yes, postpartum hair loss is a real thing. It is a common condition that affects about 50% of women after childbirth. It is caused by a combination of hormonal changes and stress.
During pregnancy, women’s bodies produce high levels of estrogen and progesterone. These hormones help to keep hair in the growth phase. After childbirth, estrogen and progesterone levels drop, which causes hair to enter the resting phase. This is called telogen effluvium.
Telogen effluvium is a temporary condition that usually resolves on its own within 6 to 12 months after childbirth. However, it can be distressing for women who are already dealing with the emotional and physical changes of motherhood.
There are a few things women can do to help manage hair loss after pregnancy. These include:
- Eating a healthy diet. A healthy diet can help to improve overall health and hair growth.
- Getting enough sleep. Sleep is essential for hair growth.
- Managing stress. Stress can worsen hair loss.
- Using a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Harsh shampoos and conditioners can irritate the scalp and make hair loss worse.
- Avoiding hair styling products that contain alcohol or other harsh chemicals. These products can also irritate the scalp and make hair loss worse.
- If you are experiencing hair loss after pregnancy, talk to your doctor. They can help you rule out any underlying medical conditions and recommend treatment options.
Here are some additional information about hair loss after pregnancy:
How much hair loss is normal?
- It is normal to lose about 50 to 100 hairs per day. However, women who experience hair loss after pregnancy may lose up to 200 hairs per day.
How long does hair loss after pregnancy last?
- Hair loss after pregnancy usually resolves on its own within 6 to 12 months. However, in some cases, it can last for up to 2 years.
What can I do to prevent hair loss after pregnancy?
- There is no way to completely prevent hair loss after pregnancy. However, there are some things you can do to help reduce your risk, such as:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Getting enough sleep
- Managing stress
- Avoiding hair styling products that contain alcohol or other harsh chemicals
What should I do if I am concerned about hair loss after pregnancy?
- If you are concerned about hair loss after pregnancy, talk to your doctor. They can help you rule out any underlying medical conditions and recommend treatment options.
Laser treatments for postpartum hair loss
Laser therapy is a safe and effective treatment for hair loss. It works by stimulating the hair follicles to grow new hair. Laser therapy has been shown to be effective in treating both male and female pattern baldness, as well as telogen effluvium.
If you are considering laser therapy for postpartum hair loss, talk to your doctor. They can help you decide if laser therapy is right for you and recommend a qualified provider.
Here are some of the benefits of using laser therapy for hair loss:
It is a safe and effective treatment.
- It can be used to treat both men and women.
- It can help to regrow hair in areas that have been affected by hair loss.
- It can help to improve the thickness and texture of hair.
If you are considering laser therapy for hair loss, talk to your doctor to learn more about the risks and benefits of this treatment.
To learn how GetHairMD™ can help you, reach out to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation and you will be eligible to receive your first treatment free! Before your appointment take our Hair Quiz so we can learn a little bit more about your hair growth journey.