Postpartum Hair Loss (alopecia)

Many women experience hair loss (alopecia) 1 to 6 months after giving birth. This phenomenon appears to result from a hormonally mediated change in the cycles of scalp follicles.

During pregnancy, anagen is prolonged. That is why during pregnancy, most women experience an increase in hair volume. In fact, the percentages of anagen hair increase is about 84% in the first trimester to 94% in the final trimester.

However, after delivery, there seems to be a delayed anagen release. Follicles then enter catagen and then telogen. Increased hair loss (sometimes called postpartum alopecia) may occur 1-6 months after childbirth, and may continue for a few months. At this time, the proportion of hairs in telogen can be as high as 50%, whereas in late pregnancy it was less than 5%.

Hair loss is mostly in the frontal and temporal regions, but may also be generalized. However, it is never total.

The cause is believed to be due to altered hormonal conditions. Other possible aggravating factors include psycho-physical trauma, blood loss, and low plasma protein.

Fortunately, postpartum hair loss is only a temporary setback for full recovery is usual in 4-12 months. Studies have shown that the problem tends to be less severe in subsequent pregnancies.

Preventing hair loss after pregnancy

Since postpartum alopecia is a temporary condition, most doctors tend to advice their patients that there is nothing to worry about due to it being part of the natural postpartum process. So, in terms of preventing hair loss after pregnancy , the best that can be done is to try not to exacerbate the condition so that no more hair loss than necessary occurs. To help maintain your hair during this period its best to practice proper hair care (see "hair loss prevention tips" for guidance).

Eating a healthy diet that includes fresh fruit and vegetables can also play an important part in trying to maintain the hair. You can get info on the necessary nutrients for healthy hair from the article "minerals and vitamins for hair loss". 

The most important thing to remember about postpartum hair loss is not to worry too much, because it is only a temporary condition and it will eventually stop. Stress will only make things worst or delay the recovery process.

Continue reading - hair loss prevention cure