Why is my hair falling out so much while breastfeeding?

Understanding Postpartum Hair Loss During Breastfeeding
For many new mothers, the experience of hair loss while breastfeeding can be both alarming and confusing. It’s important to understand that this phenomenon is quite common and typically linked to hormonal changes rather than the act of breastfeeding itself.
The Hormonal Shift
After giving birth, a woman’s body undergoes significant hormonal fluctuations. During pregnancy, elevated levels of estrogen help to prolong the hair growth phase, resulting in thicker, fuller hair. However, after childbirth, estrogen levels drop sharply, which can trigger a condition known as telogen effluvium. This condition leads to increased hair shedding, often noticeable a few months postpartum.
Timing and Expectations
Most women will experience this hair shedding around three to six months after giving birth. While it may seem excessive, dermatologists emphasize that this is a normal response to hormonal changes and not a permanent loss of hair. In fact, most women can expect their hair growth cycle to return to normal within six to twelve months after delivery.
Breastfeeding and Hair Loss
It’s crucial to clarify that breastfeeding itself does not cause hair loss. The shedding is primarily due to the hormonal adjustments occurring in the body post-pregnancy. Many new mothers worry that breastfeeding might exacerbate hair loss, but research indicates that the two are unrelated.
Coping with Hair Loss
While the hair loss is typically temporary, there are ways to manage the situation. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support hair health. Additionally, gentle hair care practices, such as avoiding tight hairstyles and minimizing heat styling, can help reduce further stress on the hair.
Conclusion
In summary, if you’re experiencing hair loss while breastfeeding, rest assured that this is a common and temporary condition linked to hormonal changes rather than breastfeeding itself. Understanding the underlying causes can help alleviate concerns and allow new mothers to focus on their recovery and the joys of motherhood. If hair loss persists or worsens, consulting a healthcare provider or dermatologist can provide further guidance and reassurance.

Does iron deficiency cause hair loss?

Iron deficiency can cause hair loss and increased hair shedding. Hair loss from low iron isn’t permanent. Your hair will start to grow back once your iron levels return to normal. Taking oral iron supplements can help get your iron stores back to normal.

Which vitamin is related to hair fall?

Only riboflavin, biotin, folate, and vitamin B12 deficiencies have been associated with hair loss. Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) is a component of two important coenzymes: flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) [22].

Can prenatals stop postpartum hair loss?

Kopelman explains that prenatals are, overall, good for your health during pregnancy and postpartum, but they are not designed to help with hair loss. Marmon adds that prenatal vitamins can ensure adequate levels of essential nutrients like iron and folic acid which, if you’re deficient in, may contribute to hair loss.

Can breastfeeding make your hair fall out?

Postpartum hair loss is a normal – and temporary – postpartum change that is unrelated to breastfeeding. Most women will return to their usual hair growth cycle between 6 and 12 months after birth. Many new moms notice hair loss – sometimes quite dramatic – around three months postpartum.

How can I stop excessive postpartum hair loss?

How to Treat Postpartum Hair Loss

1. Try out a new haircut to make your hair appear fuller and help new hair regrowth blend in (with an added bonus of less yanking from your baby)
2. Be extra gentle with your hair while washing, brushing and styling.
3. Try to avoid tight hairstyles that put strain on your scalp and hair.

How long does postpartum hair loss last?

Postpartum hair loss is a common condition that occurs about three months after childbirth and can last up to six months. It’s a normal part of pregnancy and is only temporary. For most people, your hair will grow back to its original fullness.

Does cutting hair help with postpartum hair loss?

You may have heard of the cliché “mom haircut”—a shorter hairstyle that many new moms go for after their baby is born. While many women turn to the mom ‘do for practical reasons, the shorter style may also help reduce the appearance of postpartum hair loss.

What is the hair pull test?

Pull Test and Tug Test
This simple test measures the severity of hair loss. During a pull test, a dermatologist grasps small sections of hair, about 40 strands, from different parts of the scalp and gently tugs. If six or more strands fall out, you have what’s known as active hair loss.

What foods prevent postpartum hair loss?

Vitamins A, C, D, E, and Zinc are all helpful in reducing postpartum hair shedding. Biotin (vitamin B7), found naturally in milk, eggs, and bananas, is particularly useful for this.