Navigating Postpartum and Pregnancy Hair Changes with Confidence

Pregnancy is a journey full of exciting and sometimes overwhelming changes. While many of these changes are joyous, they can also present challenges. 

For some expecting moms, hair loss can be an unexpected or even stressful change. However, by understanding the underlying causes and with the right care and attention to your symptoms, pregnancy-related hair loss can be managed effectively, helping you navigate this experience with confidence.

Hair Changes During Pregnancy

Did you know that during pregnancy, elevated oestrogen levels can actually reduce the normal rate of hair shedding? This hormonal boost results in fuller, thicker hair as more strands stay in the growth phase of the hair cycle.

However, not everyone experiences this. For some, hormonal fluctuations can lead to hair thinning or increased shedding during pregnancy, which is natural and often temporary.

Hair thinning or shedding during pregnancy can occur due to factors disrupting the hair growth cycle, including:

• High levels of stress, which can disrupt the natural hair cycle, prematurely pushing more hair into the shedding phase
• Nutritional deficiencies such as low iron, folic acid, or protein levels
• Hormonal imbalances such as thyroid issues, affecting the balance of hormones regulating hair follicle activity, speeding up shedding or thinning

Postpartum Hair Loss

After childbirth, as your body’s oestrogen levels return to normal, it could also trigger a shift in the hair’s natural shedding and regrowth phases, causing hair that was retained during pregnancy to shed. This often occurs three to six months postpartum, and you’ll notice some shedding around the hairline or increased hair fall during this time. While it can be alarming, it is simply your hair returning to its normal growth cycle.

The good news? There are also steps you can take to nurture your hair and scalp health during this time: 

• Adopting a gentle hair care routine: 
  • Sulphate-free shampoos and hydrating conditioners can help reduce irritation, dryness, and hair breakage. 
  • To further protect your hair, use heat protectants before styling and opt for a wide-toothed comb for gentle detangling
  • Skip heavy conditioners and opt for volumising shampoos with protein to enhance hair thickness and fullness.
• Balanced Nutrition is key: Nutrition deficiencies can exacerbate hair loss, thus it’s important to maintain a diet rich in: 
  • Biotin: This essential nutrient helps strengthen hair and is commonly found in foods like eggs, nuts, and whole grains.
  • Iron: Vital for delivering oxygen to your hair follicles, iron can be sourced from lean meats, spinach, and legumes.
  • Vitamin D: Often overlooked but crucial for hair health, vitamin D can be obtained through fortified foods and fatty fish like salmon or mackerel.
  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Known for promoting scalp health and shiny hair, omega-3s are abundant in salmon, walnuts, and chia seeds.

However, if you experience excessive shedding (over 100 – 150 strands per day), noticeable bald spots, or prolonged thinning lasting beyond six months, it could signal an underlying issue. In such cases, it’s best to consult a dermatologist for personalised advice and treatment options.

With the right approach, you’ll be back to feeling confident and in control of your hair in no time!