Daily hair loss is a common occurrence. We all lose hair at a steady and continual rate, more often when we wash and comb it. During pregnancy, most women have thick, lustrous hair and experience hair-fall after childbirth. Nevertheless, in some cases women find themselves losing hair during pregnancy. Let’s take a look at why women lose hair during pregnancy. 

Causes Of Hair Loss During Pregnancy 

The hair grows in a cyclical manner and this process is ongoing. There are three phases of growth: 

1.  Anagen, where the hair receives nourishment from the blood supply before finally sprouting out.
2. Catagen, in which the hair detaches itself from the blood supply since it is fully grown now.
3. Telogen, where the hair enters a ‘resting period’ and awaits for new hair to sprout out and replace it.

During pregnancy, women’s bodies get flooded with two hormones namely, estrogen and progesterone. This affects graft’s blood circulation and reduces the growth of hair. Hence, some women might suffer severe hair loss during pregnancy.

Additionally, pregnant women might observe their hair loss owing to stress during pregnancy. This phenomenon is known as ‘Telogen Effluvium’, and is related to hormonal changes. These sudden hormonal changes can worsen the body balance and may lead to hair loss. This type of hair loss occurs slowly and last for six months, and the results are mainly temporary.

Hair loss can also occur as a side effect of the thyroid hormone being excreted excessively. Similarly, deficiency of iron due to hormonal changes within the mother’s body can lead to hair loss during pregnancy. However, hair loss due to the deficiency of iron is temporary. After childbirth, the hair returns to its normal growth circulation.

Hair loss during pregnancy can also be caused by an underlying autoimmune condition like rheumatoid arthritis, polycystic ovary syndrome, or an inherited hair loss pattern.

Female pattern baldness, also known as androgenic alopecia, happens when the growth phase of the life-cycle is slow causing more time to pass before new hair grows again. Another autoimmune condition, alopecia areata causes permanent hair loss. In this condition, hair frequently falls out in patches on the scalp and other parts of the body. There is no cure for this type of hair loss but certain treatments might help in stopping hair loss and also in hair regrowth.

Once the baby is born, hormonal levels will readjust to normalcy which means another sudden change for the hair. Women can see their hair falling all at the same time or in clumps for three to four months after childbirth. This is not true hair loss but rather excessive ‘hair shedding’ caused by a dip in the hormone estrogen, and can be resolved within six months or so.

Treating Hair Loss During Pregnancy 

Hair loss during and after pregnancy might not require any special treatment. It typically gets resolved on its own over time.  

However, if you do feel that there is some underlying condition, a doctor can help you find the best and safest treatment for you. Doctors sometimes prescribe minoxidil (Rogaine) if hair growth does not return to its previous level but this drug is not considered safe for use during pregnancy. On the contrary, medications like levothyroxine, that is used in treating hypothyroidism, can be safely taken as it has been categorized by the FDA as having no proven increase in the recurrence of malformations or harmful effects on the fetus. The majority of treatments for other conditions such as androgenic alopecia are not recommended during pregnancy. The doctor might recommend hair transplant or low-level laser treatment that uses red light waves to restore hair growth, instead of medications.

Hair Loss After Childbirth

Some medications are safe after childbirth and others are not. For instance, Rogaine is not considered safe if you are breastfeeding. It is an option that you might want to consider after you are done with nursing.

It is better to consult wirh your doctor about the pros and cons of different treatment options.

Preventing Hair Loss During Pregnancy

Preventing hair loss might not be always possible, but certain behaviors can make a difference. Let’s take a look at some useful hair loss treatment options that can help in reducing hair loss and have healthier hair.

1. Oil Your Scalp

Regularly oiling your scalp can prove to be very effective for the health of your hair. Applying oil twice a week before going to sleep can help in nourishing your hair. You might also massage your hair once in a while with lukewarm oil. Some of the most nourishing and effective oils are coconut oil, almond oil, mustard oil, and olive oil.

2. Avoid Hair Styling

Maintain your natural type rather than going for straightening, blow-drying, or other hairstyles. Be gentle with your hair when it is wet and use a wide-toothed comb to unravel wet hair.

3. Maintain a Healthy Diet

The mother-to-be must consume food filled with vital nutrients required for the well-being of herself and her baby. It is suggested that you pick a diet high in vegetables and fruits, comprising antioxidants and flavonoids. Also, supplement your diet with Vitamins C, E, B complex, Apple cider vinegar and zinc in minimal amounts. This will encourage hair growth and protect the hair follicles.

4. Try Meditation

Stress is one of the chief reasons for hair loss during pregnancy. It is possible for a pregnant woman to be tensed about her delivery and other negative situations. But you should aim to be absolutely stress-free during pregnancy. Focus on the good things and do whatever makes you happy. Breathe, relax and try to meditate to free yourself from worries or tensions.

5. Avoid Chemical Products

Avoid hair care products that claim to solve hair fall-related problems during pregnancy. These products are not safe for pregnant women as they may contain harmful chemicals. Use shampoos and conditioners that are made of or contain biotin and silica.