How to Stop Losing Hair After Pregnancy?

The changes in body hormone levels during and after pregnancy affect the entire body. This often has an adverse effect on the hair and the skin and can be quite frightening. For women, losing hair after pregnancy is a common phenomenon. Hair loss can take place during pregnancy, but is most common and severe for a period of up to four months after delivery.

There isn’t any cure, but there is a treatment for losing hair after pregnancy. The hair loss usually stops about 3 to 4 months after delivery, when the body’s hormones return to their normal level. It is possible to prevent this hair loss by following a few simple suggestions. Sometimes hair loss can be caused by a thyroid problem, in which case your physician will guide you as to the proper treatment.

Maintaining a balanced diet is also essential to having healthy hair. Your diet should have a high proportion of vegetables and fruits which are rich in vitamins and antioxidants. They provide nourishment and protection for the hair follicles and foster hair growth. Make sure you get enough proteins as they help keep your hair healthy.
Sometimes, vitamin or mineral deficiency can exacerbate hair loss, so make sure you take a good quality vitamin & mineral supplement every day. When choosing a multivitamin, make sure it contains adequate amounts of vitamin B complex, vitamins C & E, biotin and zinc.

Do not wash your hair too often. Use mild shampoos only. Shampoos containing biotin, silica and vitamin E have been found to lessen hair loss. Follow it with a gentle hair conditioner. Avoid using hair dyes and other chemical treatments like hair bonding. These may cause further damage to your hair. Avoid the use of hair dryers, but if you must, then make sure to use the cool setting.

Brush your hair gently, preferably with a brush that has soft bristles and avoid the use of fine tooth combs. Try to leave your hair loose or if you must, tie it in a loose knot. Many hairstyles like braids and weaves put undue stress on the hair and are best avoided for this period.

Remember, once your body’s hormones revert to their normal levels, the hair loss will stop, so do not get unduly stressed about it.

Submitted by J on October 14, 2011 at 02:14

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