Does breastfeeding cause hair loss is a question that many women ponder when they notice their strands thinning as they nurse their babies.
The truth of the matter is that the act of breastfeeding does not trigger alopecia by itself. However, factors surrounding the lactation period can cause women to lose their hair.
Ahead, we will discuss the various factors that cause nursing mothers to shed their hair.
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Does Breastfeeding Cause Hair Loss? No, But …
Hormone Related Hair Loss
Breastfeeding itself does not cause hair shedding BUT the hormonal changes which occur after delivery of the baby, which include a drop in the estrogen level, result in a type of hair loss known as postpartum telogen effluvium. This hair shedding usually starts 3 months after delivery and can last for up to 6 months. It usually ends 6-12 months after giving birth.
Iron Deficiency Hair Loss
Breastfeeding itself does not cause hair shedding BUT if the nursing mother does not take enough iron in her diet, she may become iron deficient since the baby depends on her for its supply of iron. This iron deficiency in the mother can then result in hair loss during the breastfeeding period.
Stress Related Hair Loss
Breastfeeding itself does not cause hair shedding BUT if the lactating mother is experiencing considerable stress due to the changes in her life, she may start losing her hair. This type of hair loss is known as stress-related telogen effluvium.
Coincidental Hair Loss
Breastfeeding itself does not cause hair loss BUT during the breastfeeding period a woman may develop medical conditions that cause hair loss. These conditions include thyroid dysfunction and autoimmune diseases.
Click on the link to read about Common Causes Of Hair Loss
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Genetic Predisposition
Breastfeeding itself does not cause hair loss BUT a woman’s genes can predispose her to losing a lot of hair after delivery. The converse is also true because not every woman gets postpartum hair loss.
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How To Prevent Hair Loss During Breastfeeding
Postpartum hair loss which occurs due to a drop in estrogen levels cannot be prevented or treated since it is a normal physiological process in the body.
However, you can prevent further breastfeeding hair loss by doing the following:
Consume Iron Rich Foods
Consuming iron-rich foods like spinach and other dark green leafy vegetables can help prevent the iron deficiency anemia that can occur during the breastfeeding period.
Click on the link to read about the Top 10 Foods Rich In Iron
Click on the link to read about The Top 10 Hair Growth Foods
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Practice Relaxation Techniques
Practicing effective relaxation techniques like abdominal breathing and meditation can help prevent the stress related hair loss that can occur during the breastfeeding period.
Click on the link to learn about The Best Stress Management Relaxation Techniques
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Treat Hair Gently
To control hair fall during breastfeeding, treat your hair gently since this prevents the hair damage that leads to hair loss. To do this use sulfate-free shampoos, deep conditioners and healthy hair oils. Use lower heat settings on blow driers, flat irons, and curling irons and avoid tight hair styles.
Click on the link to read about The Best Natural Hair Care Products
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FAQ
Do breasatfeeding moms lose more hair?
Yes, some breastfeeding moms lose more than 100 hairs daily which is more than the normal rate of loosing 100 hairs each day.
How long after stopping breastfeeding will my hair stop falling out?
Postpartum hair loss usually stops after 6 months. If you loose hair for more than 6 months, consult our Hair Doctor as it might not be caused by postpartum hair loss. For example postpartum hair loss after 1 year might be caused by thyroid conditions like postpartum thyroiditis. This extended breastfeeding hair loss can also be caused by other medical conditions.
What are the best vitamins for postpartum hair loss while breastfeeding?
The best vitamins for postpartum hair loss while breastfeeding are vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B7 (biotin), vitamin B12 (cobalamin), vitamin D, iron, and zinc because their deficiencies causes hair loss.
Which supplement is best for postpartum hair loss?
Nutrafol Postpartum Hair Growth Supplements have been clinically tested to provide visibly thicker hair with less shedding. They have been formulated with breastfeeding-safe ingredients to target the key roots of hair thinning and shedding in the postpartum period.
WhatsApp 0721 963 156 to order this product
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Nature Made Postnatal Multivitamin contains iron and vitamin D which are required for hair growth. It also contains 18 other nutrients required for baby’s development and nursing mom’s health.
WhatsApp 0721 963 156 to order this product
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What are the home remedies for hair fall after delivery?
The home remedies for hair fall after delivery include massaging the scalp twice a day with a coconut oil and rosemary essential oil massage oil. To make this oil mix 20 ml of coconut oil with 10 drops of rosemary essential oil.
Rosemary essential oil can be purchased from our Nairobi Almasi Skincare Shop located on Moi Avenue, Sawa Mall, 3rd floor, Shop C15. Call 0721 963 156 or WhatsApp +254 721 963 156 to order. We deliver countrywide/worldwide.
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Coconut oil can be purchased from our Nairobi Almasi Skincare Shop located on Moi Avenue, Sawa Mall, 3rd floor, Shop C15. Call 0721 963 156 or WhatsApp +254 721 963 156 to order. We deliver countrywide/worldwide.
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Share with us in the comment section your views on breastfeeding and hair loss.
