7 Ways To Overcome Hair Loss During Pregnancy

Hair loss during pregnancy can be frustrating right, mums? Your hair just isn’t as luscious as before (no thanks to hormones being one of the main culprits!)

However, there’s no reason to panic! This is a common issue faced by pregnant mums and there ARE ways out of this. Before we go into the solutions, it is important to understand why this happens in the first place

What causes hair loss during pregnancy?

1. Hormonal changes

Temporary thinning or hair loss among women is mainly caused by stress. This condition is called telogen effluvium, which also affects some pregnant women.

The first trimester typically takes a larger toll on the body, due to the drastic hormonal changes made to support the growth of the fetus. As a result, roughly 30% the hair enter the telogen phase, or the “resting” phase in the hair growth cycle.

This causes pregnant women to undergo severe hair loss. We typically lose about 100 strands of hair daily, but in contrast, mums may lose three times that amount everyday during their pregnancy!

This condition does not usually exceed 6 months, and will not result in permanent hair loss.

2. Health issues

In addition, health issues may arise during pregnancy, that can contribute to telogen effluvium. It can get very severe, especially if these issues are also causing hormonal imbalances.

3. Thyroid issues

Thyroid problems like hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid resulting in overproduction of the hormone thyroxine) or hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid resulting in underproduction of the hormone) can be difficult to detect during pregnancy.

Among these two conditions, hypothyroidism is the most common, affecting 2 out of 3 women from 100 pregnant mums. Hair loss is one of the resulting effects of this condition.

4. Lack of mineral iron

Lack of iron in the body happens when mums do not possess enough red blood cells in their bloodstream to distribute oxygen across the body. This can cause thinning hair among other issues, like fatigue, irregular heartbeat, difficulty breathing when carrying out activities and headaches.

Pregnant mums are at higher risk of iron-deficiency anaemia. This is especially true if the interval between two pregnancies is too short, pregnant with twins, or suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum

Is hair fall during pregnancy permanent?

Worry not mums, it is not permanent! After giving birth, your hormones will stabilise again, although timing would differ for every woman.

Therefore, have patience and wait for those luscious locks after giving birth! The most important thing is to treat it with care by following one of the methods below.

Ways to overcome hair loss in pregnancy

As hormones are the main cause, hair loss is considered a difficult issue to treat. However, it is possible to minimise the amount of hair loss.

Follow the steps below to overcome hair loss during pregnancy!

1. Consume foods rich in iron, protein and calcium

Eggs, milk and various vegetables are important in fulfilling the body’s need for iron and protein. Both nutrients have properties linked to hair growth.

In order to maximise the benefits of the nutrients, consuming iron and calcium supplements is encouraged. It is important to visit a doctor to get the correct recommended dosage as every woman’s body is different.

2. Tie your hair less

If possible, refrain from tying your hair for long periods of time as it can lead to severe hair loss. When needed, just clip it up!

3. Use a wide-toothed comb

Combing your hair with a wide-toothed comb results in less hair fall. Using a regular small toothed brush can make your hair susceptible to breakage.

4. Stay away from heat

While pregnant and breast feeding, refrain from hair care that requires heat. Stow away your hair straighteners, curlers and dryers for now!

5. Cut your hair short

Other than making yourself look fresh, cutting your hair is an alternative solution to overcoming hair loss. It also keeps you cool when doing activities and makes every day hair care a lot easier!

6. Wash your hair no more than three times a week

Ensure that you are washing your hair no more than three times a week and not every day! This can help your scalp and hair roots become stronger and thus, reduces the amount of hair loss. Keep this up as a weekly routine!

7. Use shampoos and conditioners made specially for pregnant women

You may have found suitable products for your hair as a young adult, however, during pregnancy and breastfeeding, your hair products must fit your body’s current condition. This is due to the hormonal changes in your body that results in hair loss and breakage that haunts every mother during and after giving birth.

Furthermore, various shampoos use harmful ingredients such as parabens, SLS/SLES and triclosan. These harmful ingredients can cause risks to the fetus during pregnancy. Thus, carefully selecting shampoos, hair serums and conditioners is vital for pregnant and breastfeeding women.

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