"You're so radiant - and what strong, shiny hair you have!" Women often hear compliments like this during pregnancy. Thanks to the hormones. But as soon as the baby is born, mums are unsettled by increased hair loss after the birth. And the hormones are also "to blame" for this.
After giving birth, many mums notice that there is a lot more hair than usual on their pillow, in the comb and brush or in the sink. Is this the end of the beautiful head of hair that gives pregnant women so much self-confidence? Even new mums are not completely indifferent to their appearance - and their hairstyle ultimately contributes to their well-being.
However, this hair loss after childbirth (postpartum effluvium) is usually harmless and disappears on its own.
Therefore hair loss occurs after birth
First of all, it is only natural that we lose hair every day. Up to 100 pieces are normal. That may sound like a lot, but with an average of 80,000 to 120,000 hairs on our head, this amount is actually not significant.
Every single hair on our head has a lifespan of two to six years. Until it falls out, it goes through a cycle with three different phases: In the growth phase (anagen phase), a new hair is formed in the hair follicle in the scalp, which becomes longer and thicker. Up to 85 % of our scalp hair is in this growth phase, which lasts for years. During a two-week transition phase (catagen phase), the hair root then shrinks because it is no longer supplied with nutrients. This is, so to speak, the preparation for the three-month resting phase (telogen phase), in which the hair atrophies and eventually falls out. Then the three-phase cycle starts all over again.
During pregnancy things look a little different. First of all, oestrogen levels rise sharply. This hormone ensures radiant skin, strong nails and the strong, beautiful hair that is so admired. It keeps the hair follicles in the growth phase. This not only prolongs the lifespan of the hair, but also makes it grow faster and thicker.
After the birth however, the oestrogen level drops abruptly - the "hormonal hair booster" no longer works. In addition, many hair follicles now switch to the resting phase with the result that many hairs fall out. This hair loss is regularly distributed over the entire head. Light patches are most likely to appear around the temples and on the centre parting.
This hair loss begins within a few weeks to five months after giving birth. Once the hormone levels in the female body have stabilised, the hair cycle returns to normal and the more severe hair loss subsides. This can take three to six months, in exceptional cases even up to a year.
Don't let yourself be unsettled: The fact that more hair falls out after giving birth has nothing to do with breastfeeding! As described, the cause is hormonal and also affects mothers who are not breastfeeding.
When you should seek advice
As you can see, increased hair loss after birth is a natural process that ends on its own. In principle, therefore, there is no need to worry. However, the labour, stress, Lack of sleep and insufficient Nutrition further increase hair loss. Of course, I know that exactly these factors are also typical companions in the everyday life of parents with newborns. Your life changes completely with the baby, the nights are short and exhausting and there is often little time to cook "properly". Take comfort - this too will pass. You will become more and more confident with your child and vice versa. The better your little one adapts to this world over time, the less stress you will experience. So be patient!
However, if you are unsure whether you are losing "too much" hair, talk to your gynaecologist or midwife. It is particularly important to have your blood tested if other symptoms such as pale skin, noticeable tiredness or difficulties in producing enough milk are added to the hair loss. An iron deficiency or a thyroid disorder can also lead to excessive hair loss.
What you can do for your hair
You cannot prevent hormonally-induced increased hair loss after giving birth - and ultimately the body will regenerate on its own. However, you can support it in this process.
For example, there are various products on the market that are supposed to improve maternal hair growth. But don't expect miracles from these! Instead, focus on a healthy, balanced diet and as much rest as possible so that your body can recover from the labour. This will also have a positive effect on your hair.
It is better to use a mild shampoo to wash your hair that does not damage the scalp. A gentle scalp massage is not only pleasant, but also stimulates blood circulation to the scalp.
To minimise mechanical irritation, it is better to avoid a tight braid.
Until your hair has regained its pre-pregnancy shape and fullness, a visit to the hairdresser with a favourable haircut can also improve your well-being.
