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Pregnancy and childbirth bring about many changes in a woman’s body, hair loss being one of them. This common concern, known as postpartum hair loss, affects many new mothers. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and after childbirth are the main culprit behind this condition.
In this blog, we will explain why hair loss happens after childbirth. We also explore some of the most effective treatments for postpartum hair loss, including nutrition, lifestyle changes and advanced therapies to help you regain your confidence and maintain a healthy head of hair.
Understanding Postpartum Hair Loss
After delivery, women who give birth may experience significant shifts in hormone levels, including drops in progesterone and estrogen levels. These hormonal changes can trigger a type of hair loss known as telogen effluvium, leading to excessive shedding of hair during the shedding phase, typically around three to six months postpartum.
Key Takeaway
Postpartum hair loss is often a temporary condition influenced by hormonal shifts and nutritional deficiencies. With the right medical treatments and self-care strategies, new parents can navigate the months after childbirth with confidence and reclaim their hair health.
Hair Growth Cycle
The hair growth cycle consists of several phases:
- Anagen: The active growth phase where hair follicles produce new hair.
- Catagen: A short transition phase where growth slows.
- Telogen: The resting phase, leading to shedding.
- Exogen: The shedding phase, where old hair is released, and new hair begins to grow.
During pregnancy, the high levels of estrogen prolong the anagen (active growth) phase, resulting in thicker and fuller hair. However, after childbirth, estrogen levels drop significantly, causing more hair follicles to enter the telogen (resting) phase and ultimately leading to postpartum hair loss.
Aside from hormonal changes during pregnancy and postpartum, other factors can also contribute to postpartum hair loss. These include stress, nutritional deficiencies due to breastfeeding or inadequate diet during pregnancy, and certain medications.
Postpartum hair loss can affect partners too! Life changes pretty dramatically after the birth of a child, which can be stressful for everyone in the household. This stress can contribute to hair loss.
Hair Loss Treatments
Postpartum hair loss usually resolves on its own with time, but for some, it can be a prolonged and frustrating experience. If you (or your significant other) are struggling with hair loss, we offer a range of effective hair loss treatments to help restore your hair’s health and appearance.
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Therapy
- How it works: PRP therapy stimulates hair growth by injecting platelets, which contain growth factors, directly into the scalp.
- Benefits: PRP therapy is a natural and safe option for addressing hair loss. It promotes hair growth by increasing blood flow to the scalp, nourishing hair follicles, and stimulating new hair growth.
Red Light Therapy
- How it works: This non-invasive treatment uses specific wavelengths of light to enhance cellular activity in hair follicles.
- Advantages: Red light therapy promotes improved circulation and can extend the anagen phase of the hair growth cycle.
Peptides
- Role of peptides: These small proteins nourish hair follicles and can play a significant role in hair regrowth.
- Impact on hair health: Peptide treatments improve overall hair texture and strength, fostering a healthier scalp environment.
RE|VIVE
- Combination technique: This approach combines ultrasound with a proprietary blend of active plant based secretory factors and the latest bio-based, patented technology specifically formulated for hair & scalp health.
- Benefits: RE|VIVE helps stimulate dormant hair follicles, promote new hair growth, and improve overall scalp health.
We take a holistic approach to optimize your health. We consider all aspects of an individual’s health before suggesting a treatment plan.
Treatment may include nutrition and supplementation advice, lifestyle recommendations, and hormone optimization, in addition to hair loss treatments.
Additional Tips for Managing Hair Loss
These tips are for both partners to help manage hair loss:
- Maintain a healthy diet: A balanced diet rich in minerals, protein, and vitamins is crucial for supporting hair follicles and overall hair health.
- Gentle hair care: Avoid using heat on your hair (❌ flat irons, hair dryers, or curling irons) and use lightweight conditioners and conditioning shampoos to protect and nourish the hair and scalp.
- Stress management: Easier said than done, right!? Together with your partner, take the time to find ways to cope with stress – whether it’s through exercise, mindfulness techniques, or seeking support from loved ones.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
As you navigate the journey of parenthood, it’s important to prioritize your health and wellbeing, including your hair health. If you are experiencing postpartum hair loss or are struggling with any other concerns postpartum, we are here to help.
We offer a range of services, including hormone optimization, IV therapy, weight loss support and NET therapy. We would love to see you and your partner for a consultation to develop a personalized treatment plan and support you on your postpartum journey.
To book an appointment with Dr. Scott Maymon, ND, MPH or Dr. Sarah Stone, ND, call (480) 427-0442 or complete the online inquiry form. We look forward to meeting you!