Here’s what you need to know about post-partum hair loss

If you find yourself shedding hair in clumps and by the handful months after you’ve had your baby, this is a fairly common phenomenon known as post-partum hair loss. This could be alarming especially if you’re experiencing it for the first time, but it’s nothing to be overly worried about, and here’s why.

What causes post-partum hair loss?

Everyone loses hair on a daily basis and it’s normal to lose about 100 strands of hair each day. During pregnancy, hormones during this period keep your hair from falling out (you might have noticed, lusher, thicker mane during your pregnancy?).

After having your baby, your hormones regulate and go back to normal, and your extra hairs will drop, giving the impression of excessive hair loss.

How long does post-partum hair loss last?

The good news about post-partum hair loss is that almost in all cases, recovery takes place within six months, and that no specific treatment is required to regain your healthy locks.

However, if your hair loss condition persists for more than six months, you should seek professional medical advice to determine the cause.

Helpful tips to deal with post-partum hair loss

It doesn’t hurt to give your hair a little TLC now that you’re dealing with hair loss. Hair too gets nutrients from the food you eat. Enjoy food like eggs, spinach, fatty fish like tuna and salmon, avocadoes and nuts are all known to promote hair growth.

This is also a good time to be extra gentle with your hair, and that includes using gentle shampoo and conditioner, and using a wide-toothed comb to gently detangle hair. Avoid wearing any hair accessories that could be too tight for your hair and resist getting your hair into too tight braids or ponytails.

Also consider skipping any blow-dryers, curling and flat irons as much as you can, and put off any chemically-based treatments for now. Highlights, perms and hair straightening sessions can all wait till you’ve restored your healthy mane.

If despite all your efforts you still feel hair loss is excessive, do speak to a medical doctor who could help to give you a proper diagnosis, should there be one, and offer non-invasive treatments to boost scalp health and hair growth.