What to Do If Post-Natal Hair Loss Persists

“What to Do If Post-Natal Hair Loss Persists” is a collaborative post.

Post-natal, or postpartum, hair loss is quite common. In fact, it is believed that over 90% of women experience postpartum hair loss, which could vary from minimal shedding to noticeable thinning. This is often the result of estrogen levels dropping after the temporary increase during pregnancy, and it is expected to resolve around six months after childbirth.

But some women might find that this issue does not slow down months after giving birth, and this can have a big impact on confidence and mental health. Thankfully, there are numerous things you can do to reverse and/or decelerate hair loss after childbirth, and this post mentions three of the most effective ways to cope.

Speak to a Doctor

When you notice that post-natal hair loss is persisting, you must book an appointment with your doctor. This will offer you professional advice on diagnosing your issue and offering relevant treatments. To ensure you are adequately prepared for your appointment, you should make some notes. It is recommended to include a timeline of when your hair loss started, how much hair you are losing, and if you are experiencing any other symptoms.

The doctor will use this information, as well as scalp examinations and blood tests, to rule out underlying medical conditions, such as thyroid issues and nutrient deficiencies. They might also recommend additional tests. If or when a medical cause is identified, then your doctor will recommend appropriate treatment, such as medications, supplements, etc.

While most cases of post-natal hair loss are temporary, there are some individuals who will not regain hair after childbirth. This is when more permanent solutions might be explored, such as hair transplants. If this is an option you would like to explore, it is vital to discuss the procedure and your suitability with a professional like Dr Carlos Puig, PHRC founder. You should find a specialist who has lots of experience in female hair restoration.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Staying healthy in all aspects of life is important, no matter your personal circumstances. This is even more important for postpartum women who are still recovering from pregnancy and giving birth. Your body has gone through a lot during this process, and natal vitamins can only do so much.

One aspect to focus on is maintaining a nutritious diet. You should include a variety of healthy proteins, fruits, and vegetables in your diet; this will ensure your body gets everything it needs. There are some foods that are ideal for improving hair health, such as dark leafy greens for iron and vitamin C, carrots and sweet potatoes for beta carotene, and fish for omega-3s and magnesium.

It is also wise to try to manage the stress you experience. This can be difficult with a newborn baby, but it is essential to make time for yourself. You should prioritize self-care when possible by incorporating relaxation techniques, like deep breathing and medication, into your day and aiming for sufficient sleep. To get enough sleep, it is best to take short naps throughout the day while your baby is sleeping.

These changes will improve your hormones and overall well-being, which could reduce and even reverse your hair loss.

Seek Support from Family and Friends

Hair loss can be a difficult issue to deal with by yourself, especially if a large part of your identity connects to your hair. This is why it is encouraged to find a support system. Family members and friends are very good options for support, especially when you are busy with a newborn. These people will be able to help you out while listening to your concerns and feelings.

When airing your feelings, it is important to share how hair loss affects you emotionally and physically. You can let them know what specific support you need, which could extend from cooking meals to running errands. This can make it easier for them to help you and ensure your needs are met correctly.

To conclude, if you experience post-natal hair loss and it persists longer than expected, there are things you can do. This post outlines three of the most effective ways to help yourself during a difficult time.