Hair Loss During and After Pregnancy

Hair Loss During and After Pregnancy

 

Dr. Hamid HosseiniAuthor: Dr. Hamid Hosseini MD, MBioMed & PhD

 

(CEO & Founder of Hamita Biotech who discovered the unique formula of Dr. Hamid Hair Regrowth Products. A Clinician, Researcher & Immunologist who specialised in hair physiology & aesthetic medicine; Melbourne, Australia).

During pregnancy, women typically enjoy thicker, healthier, and shinier hair thanks to elevated hormone estrogen levels, which slows down hair loss. Rising estrogen levels naturally reduce hair follicle shedding. Consequently, most pregnant women experience reduced hair loss during pregnancy. However, not all pregnancies follow this pattern, and some women may still experience thinning hair or hair loss either during pregnancy or after childbirth (1–3).

On average, men and women lose around 50 to 100 hairs daily. Hair loss during and after pregnancy can be attributed to various factors, including stress, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, malnutrition, or underlying medical conditions (4,5). 

Many pregnant women may experience telogen effluvium, characterized by temporary hair thinning or shedding due to stress. Hair loss during the first trimester is more common and could be linked to the body's stress during the dramatic hormonal shifts necessary to support the developing baby. Hair loss from hormonal changes typically occurs later in pregnancy and may take two to four months to become noticeable. Importantly, hair loss due to this condition is not permanent and generally lasts less than six months (1,2).

 

Investigating the relationship between pregnancy and hair loss

Specific health issues during pregnancy

It can lead to telogen effluvium, which can cause significant hair shedding, especially in ongoing hormonal imbalances or nutritional deficiencies (3,6,7,8).

Thyroid Problems and Hair loss

 

Thyroid Problem

 Thyroid disorders, such as hyperthyroidism (excessive thyroid hormone levels) or hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone levels), can be challenging to detect during pregnancy. Hypothyroidism, affecting approximately 2-3% of pregnant women, can manifest with symptoms like hair loss, muscle cramps, constipation, and fatigue. Postpartum thyroiditis, a thyroid inflammation that occurs in about 5% of women after childbirth, is also characterized by hair loss. In all cases of thyroid disorders, hair loss is a prominent symptom, typically diagnosed through blood tests (3,9,10).

Iron Deficiency and Hair lossIron Deficiency

 Iron deficiency leads to inadequate oxygen supply due to a shortage of red blood cells. Symptoms can include fatigue, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath during exertion, and headaches. Pregnant women, especially those with closely spaced pregnancies, multiple pregnancies, or severe morning sickness, are more susceptible to iron deficiency anemia. A blood test can diagnose iron deficiency. While these conditions don't cause permanent hair loss, hair may not return to its standard thickness until hormone and vitamin levels normalize (11–15).
about Postpartum hair loss

Postpartum hair loss

it is a temporary condition characterized by visible thinning, especially around the hairline and temporal areas. It's common for women to experience hair loss after childbirth, with peak shedding occurring around four months postpartum. This shedding, often called "excessive hair shedding," is attributed to a drop in estrogen levels after delivery (2,16).

Other Causes for hair loss : Androgenic Alopecia and Alopecia AreataOther Causes

Whether pregnant or not, hair loss due to telogen effluvium typically results in uniform thinning. Patches or more severe balding may be attributed to genetic and autoimmune conditions. Pregnant women could potentially have one of these conditions simultaneously.

  • Androgenic Alopecia

Female pattern baldness is characterized by shortening the hair follicles' growth phase, leading to longer intervals between shedding and regrowth (17–19).

 

  • Alopecia Areata

 This condition involves patchy hair loss on the scalp and other body parts, with a cyclical pattern of hair loss and regrowth. While there is no cure, specific treatments may promote hair regrowth (20,21).

    Trauma and Hair lossTrauma

    Hair loss may not always be related to pregnancy or genetic factors. Certain hairstyles, beauty treatments, or rough hair handling can cause hair loss, known as traction alopecia. Sometimes, hair follicles can become inflamed, potentially leading to scarring and permanent baldness (1,2).

     

    • Treatment for Pregnancy-Related Hair Loss

    In most cases, hair loss during and after pregnancy resolves independently over time and does not require special treatment. However, shampoos and conditioners rich in essential nutrients, minerals, and vitamins can promote and maintain healthy hair while reducing anxiety. Dr Hamid Hair Regrowth Products contain all the elements for healthy hair and can be beneficial (1,14,22).  

    Medications such as minoxidil (Rogaine) may be prescribed if hair growth doesn't return to previous levels. However, it's not recommended to use this drug during pregnancy due to safety concerns. Hair regrowth can occur naturally over time, but consulting your doctor can help determine the proper medication or supplements for underlying medical conditions such as hypothyroidism or iron deficiency anemia. Using Dr Hamid Hair Regrowth Products at any stage of hair loss or treatment can help restore hair density and quality (23,24).

    Some treatments for other conditions, including androgenic alopecia, are also not recommended during pregnancy. Low-level laser treatment, which uses red light waves to stimulate hair growth, can be considered an alternative to medications. Dr. Hamid Hair Regrowth Products, enriched with natural ingredients, can provide the necessary nutrients, minerals, and vitamins to hair follicles for hair growth during these times (14,22).

    • Treatment of Postpartum Hair Loss

    During postpartum and breastfeeding, certain medications are safe, while others are not. For instance, Rogaine is not considered safe while breastfeeding, but it can be used after breastfeeding. Consult your doctor to weigh the pros and cons of different treatment options while using Dr. Hamid Hair Regrowth Products (14).

     

    prevent hair loss during pregnancy

    While you may not be able to prevent hair loss during pregnancy entirely, there are steps you can take

    Maintain a Balanced Diet During pregnancyMaintain a Balanced Diet

     Get enough protein, iron, and other essential nutrients. Consult your doctor for advice on prenatal vitamins.

    Medication and Supplements During pregnancyMedication and Supplements

     Check with your doctor to see if any medications or supplements you take may contribute to hair loss.

    Avoid tight hairstyles that pull on your hairHairstyles

     Avoid tight hairstyles that pull on your hair. Be gentle when washing and detangling your hair to minimize hair loss (15).

    Allow your hair to rest naturally by avoiding harsh treatmentsHair Care

     Allow your hair to rest naturally by avoiding harsh treatments such as hot rollers, curling irons, hot oil treatments, and permanent procedures.

    consult your doctor to explore other possible causes for hair lossConsult Your Doctor

     If hair loss persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, consult your doctor to explore other possible causes.

    Using Dr. Hamid's hair regrowth products to control and treat hair lossUse Dr Hamid Hair Regrowth Products

     These products are designed with natural ingredients to prevent and treat hair loss, providing excellent results.

     

    Hair loss during pregnancy, although not uncommon, is considered normal

    Hair loss during pregnancy, although not uncommon, is considered normal, especially when hormonal changes are involved, or certain health conditions exist. Depending on the cause of hair loss, hair growth may resume naturally over time or with appropriate treatment. Postpartum hair shedding typically peaks around four months after childbirth and tends to return to average growth within six to nine months. While there may not be a complete solution, maintaining a healthy diet, ensuring adequate sleep, and using hair care products like Dr.Hamid Hair Regrowth Products can help. Consult your doctor for a comprehensive evaluation in cases of persistent hair loss or accompanying symptoms (10,16). 

    References

     

    References:

    1. Thom E. Pregnancy and the hair growth cycle: anagen induction against hair growth disruption using Nourkrin® with Marilex® , a proteoglycan replacement therapy. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2017 Sep;16(3):421–7.
    2. Lynfield YL. Effect of pregnancy on the human hair cycle. J Invest Dermatol. 1960 Dec;35:323–7.
    3. Shrivastava SB. Diffuse hair loss in an adult female: approach to diagnosis and management. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. 2009;75(1):20–7; quiz 27–8.
    4. Paus R, Cotsarelis G. The Biology of Hair Follicles. Epstein FH, editor. N Engl J Med. 1999 Aug 12;341(7):491–7.
    5. Buffoli B, Rinaldi F, Labanca M, Sorbellini E, Trink A, Guanziroli E, et al. The human hair: from anatomy to physiology. Int J Dermatol. 2014 Mar;53(3):331–41.
    6. Rebora A. Telogen effluvium: a comprehensive review. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2019;12:583–90.
    7. Malkud S. Telogen Effluvium: A Review. J Clin Diagn Res. 2015 Sep;9(9):WE01-03.
    8. Asghar F, Shamim N, Farooque U, Sheikh H, Aqeel R. Telogen Effluvium: A Review of the Literature. Cureus. 2020 May 27;12(5):e8320.
    9. Stagnaro-Green A, Abalovich M, Alexander E, Azizi F, Mestman J, Negro R, et al. Guidelines of the American Thyroid Association for the diagnosis and management of thyroid disease during pregnancy and postpartum. Thyroid. 2011 Oct;21(10):1081–125.
    10. DiMarco G, McMichael A. Hair Loss Myths. J Drugs Dermatol. 2017 Jul 1;16(7):690–4.
    11. Mubki T, Rudnicka L, Olszewska M, Shapiro J. Evaluation and diagnosis of the hair loss patient: part I. History and clinical examination. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2014 Sep;71(3):415.e1-415.e15.
    12. Trost LB, Bergfeld WF, Calogeras E. The diagnosis and treatment of iron deficiency and its potential relationship to hair loss. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2006 May;54(5):824–44.
    13. Walters GO, Miller FM, Worwood M. Serum ferritin concentration and iron stores in normal subjects. J Clin Pathol. 1973 Oct;26(10):770–2.
    14. Wolff H, Fischer TW, Blume-Peytavi U. The Diagnosis and Treatment of Hair and Scalp Diseases. Dtsch Arztebl Int. 2016 May 27;113(21):377–86.
    15. Rushton DH. Nutritional factors and hair loss. Clin Exp Dermatol. 2002 Jul;27(5):396–404.
    16. Mirallas O, Grimalt R. The Postpartum Telogen Effluvium Fallacy. Skin Appendage Disord. 2016 May;1(4):198–201.
    17. Nestor MS, Ablon G, Gade A, Han H, Fischer DL. Treatment options for androgenetic alopecia: Efficacy, side effects, compliance, financial considerations, and ethics. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2021 Dec;20(12):3759–81.
    18. Martinez-Jacobo L, Villarreal-Villarreal CD, Ortiz-López R, Ocampo-Candiani J, Rojas-Martínez A. Genetic and molecular aspects of androgenetic alopecia. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. 2018;84(3):263–8.
    19. Starace M, Orlando G, Alessandrini A, Piraccini BM. Female Androgenetic Alopecia: An Update on Diagnosis and Management. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2020 Feb;21(1):69–84.
    20. Simakou T, Butcher JP, Reid S, Henriquez FL. Alopecia areata: A multifactorial autoimmune condition. J Autoimmun. 2019 Mar;98:74–85.
    21. Thompson JM, Mirza MA, Park MK, Qureshi AA, Cho E. The Role of Micronutrients in Alopecia Areata: A Review. Am J Clin Dermatol. 2017 Oct;18(5):663–79.
    22. Gasmi A, Mujawdiya PK, Beley N, Shanaida M, Lysiuk R, Lenchyk L, et al. Natural Compounds Used for Treating Hair Loss. Curr Pharm Des. 2023;29(16):1231–44.
    23. Gupta AK, Talukder M, Venkataraman M, Bamimore MA. Minoxidil: a comprehensive review. J Dermatolog Treat. 2022 Jun;33(4):1896–906.
    24. York K, Meah N, Bhoyrul B, Sinclair R. A review of the treatment of male pattern hair loss. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2020 Apr;21(5):603–12.

     

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