How long does postpartum hair loss last?

I am 26 years old, gave birth 4 months ago. Recently I have noticed a lot of hair loss, I heard this is a normal phenomenon, every woman after giving birth experiences it.

So how long does postpartum hair loss last? Will hair grow back afterwards? ( Thu Ha, Binh Thuan )

Reply:

Women after giving birth face many health problems, including hair loss. Hair loss every day makes many women lose confidence because it affects their appearance. Usually, postpartum hair loss can be uncomfortable but is only temporary, starting 2-4 months after giving birth and lasting for the next few months. Hair will grow back normally after 6 months.

Postpartum hair loss in women is often due to hormonal changes. Photo: Freepik — Postpartum hair loss in women is often due to hormonal changes. Photo: *Freepik*

Possible causes of postpartum hair loss in women include:

Hormonal changes : After giving birth, estrogen levels return to pre-pregnancy levels, prompting hair follicles to enter a resting phase. During this phase, hair stops growing and after about 100 days, hair begins to fall out.

Nutritional deficiencies : After giving birth, nutrition focuses on breast milk to feed the baby, so at this stage the mother's body often lacks nutrients. A diet lacking in iron and protein will cause weak hair and hair loss.

Psychological disorders : Postpartum psychological changes along with pressure from taking care of children, family, work, etc. cause women to be stressed for a long time, which can also cause hair loss.

Scalp ringworm : This fungal infection of the scalp is characterized by dry, scaly red patches accompanied by itching and hair loss. If treated early and properly, hair will grow back.

Chemical use : Hair care products can cause hair damage, loss, and frizz. Chemical use includes perming and bleaching.

Vitamin B7 (or biotin, vitamin H) is a nutrient that greatly affects the health of hair, hair, and nails. Vitamin B7 deficiency causes hair loss along with some other dermatological problems. However, this condition is rare, because biotin is found in most familiar foods such as egg yolks, cereals, meat...

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that the following nutrients can improve postpartum hair loss: biotin (vitamin B7); vitamin B complex; vitamin C; vitamin E; iron; zinc. However, before supplementing these nutrients, women should see a doctor for examination and advice on appropriate dosage.

In case of severe hair loss that lasts for a year, the patient should see a dermatologist for examination, to find out the cause and to get early treatment.

MSc. Dr. Vu Thi Thuy Trang
Dermatology - Skin Aesthetics, Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City

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