Some of you lucky ladies may have enjoyed a thicker barnet during pregnancy - oh yes there are some pregnancy hormones that have perks! As you come to the end of pregnancy you may be wondering how long this will last for. Find out all about postpartum hair loss below.
AGHH MY HAIR IS FALLING OUT
During your second trimester you may have noticed your hair was growing quicker and fuller, this isn't because you were growing more hair but down to hormones. The rush of oestrogen and progesterone levels have a great an impact on your hair growth cycle by causing a resting phase, causing you to shed less hair making your current crop look thicker.
When the hair loss starts differs person to person but it usually begins within five months of giving birth and starts to slow down around three to six months after that. Don’t worry postpartum hair loss is completely normal although it is a completely weird surprising phenomenon! You may feel completely taken aback, anxious and shocked by how suddenly it comes on and how much hair you feel you are losing.
WHATS CAUSING IT?
Plain and simple it is down to hormones and is your body’s natural response while going through the postpartum recovery phase. As your hormones return to their pre-pregnancy levels, so does your hair.
IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO?
Sadly there isn’t anything you can do to prevent the process, but you can try to maintain a well balanced diet high in protein and iron, different vitamins, hair products and styles to get you through this postpartum phase. Remember to be extra gentle with your hair while washing, brushing and styling and avoid pulling your hair into tight hairstyles as this can put a strain on your scalp and hair.
Don't be afraid or feel guilty to treat yourself to a haircut postpartum. Not only will it help alleviate the stress of losing your hair but it will help you enjoy some well deserved me-time.
Hair loss postpartum is normal and unavoidable so, while easier said than done, try not to stress too much. Your body has gone through so many changes and will take time to recover.