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Behind The Baby Glow : The Postpartum Hair Loss No One Tells You About
When television actress Shraddha Arya welcomed her baby, her social media was filled with the glow of new motherhood-smiling selfies, baby giggles, and heartfelt captions. But behind the scenes, like many new mums, she was grappling with an unexpected change-handfuls of hair left in her brush, clogging the shower drain, and clinging to her clothes. "It's Real! #PostpartumHairfall" she captioned on social media with a crying emoji under an image showing strands of hair in her palm.
Shraddha's story echoes the experience of countless women worldwide who face postpartum hair loss. While entirely normal, it can be a jarring and emotional experience especially when juxtaposed with the supposed 'glow' of new motherhood.
What Is Postpartum Hair Loss?
Postpartum hair loss, medically known as telogen effluvium, is a common condition that affects many women in the months following childbirth. It's characterised by an increase in hair shedding, often starting around three to four months postpartum and usually peaking soon after. While it may seem severe, this hair loss is almost always temporary.
The Science Behind The Shedding
To understand postpartum hair loss, one must first understand the hair growth cycle. Hair grows from follicles in the scalp and follows a cycle consisting of three stages:
- Anagen (growth phase): Lasts two to six years and includes the majority of scalp hair (around 85-90%).
- Catagen (transition phase): A brief period where hair growth slows and follicles shrink.
- Telogen (resting phase): Lasts about three months and ends with the hair falling out.
During pregnancy, high levels of oestrogen and other hormones like hCG delay the natural shedding of hair, leading to fuller, glossier locks. However, after childbirth, these hormone levels drop significantly, causing a sudden shift-many hairs that were previously in the growth phase enter the resting phase all at once, resulting in increased shedding.
Is It Normal? How Much Hair Loss Is Too Much?
Under normal circumstances, individuals shed up to 100 hairs a day. In the postpartum period, this number can rise dramatically often enough to cause visible thinning, especially around the temples and parting line. While this can be alarming, it's considered a standard response to hormonal changes and not typically a sign of long-term damage.
Most women notice improvement by their baby's first birthday, with hair growth gradually returning to its pre-pregnancy pattern.
Coping Mechanisms And Care Tips
Although postpartum hair loss cannot be completely prevented, several steps may help manage its effects:
- Be gentle with your hair: Avoid tight hairstyles, excessive brushing, or heat styling.
- Nourish from within: A balanced diet rich in iron, vitamin D, biotin, and protein supports overall hair health.
- Continue prenatal vitamins: Especially beneficial for breastfeeding mothers, these supplements can help bridge any nutritional gaps.
- Choose the right hair products: Volumising shampoos can improve the appearance of fullness. Avoid heavy conditioners or styling products that weigh hair down.
When To Seek Medical Advice
In most cases, postpartum hair loss resolves naturally. However, if shedding continues well beyond 12 months or is accompanied by other symptoms like patches of baldness, fatigue, or changes in skin and nails, it's worth consulting a dermatologist. There could be underlying factors such as thyroid imbalances or nutritional deficiencies at play.
The Bigger Picture : Normalising The Conversation
For new mothers like Shraddha Arya, sharing real and raw aspects of postpartum life helps break the silence surrounding these lesser-discussed topics. By normalising conversations about hair loss, fatigue, or emotional dips, we can help new mums feel seen and supported.
This Too Shall Pass
Postpartum hair loss, though unsettling, is a temporary and natural part of the motherhood journey. It's a sign of your body recalibrating after the incredible feat of pregnancy and childbirth. While there's no magic fix, with patience, care, and proper support, your hair and confidence will return.
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