Pregnancy and Hair Loss
by C. Gray
Changes to hair and body are normal during a woman’s pregnancy. Some will experience more healthy and beautiful hair, while other women will actually experience changes that are less than appealing. One change is hair loss, starting with noticing additional hair on their pillow, and brush. To keep this from moving to an abnormal states is to eat right and check with your doctor about taking vitamins that will help with hair maintenance.
Hair can also go from straight to curly, full to limp or hair won’t take a perm. This is because pregnancy hormones affect every part of your hair. Working with your hair instead of against it can help hair stay healthy and strong. Trying to make an extreme change can cause unneeded damage and can even cause hair loss. Try scalp treatments and scalp massages every few weeks to help keep the scalp and hair healthy. This can also be a great destresser for expecting women.
Hair is one of the first indicators of good health. Women who have suffered from severe morning sickness or whose diets have changed and become poor will first see the change in their hair. It is a good warning sign that vitamins in the body are being depleted, especially iron. If a woman notices any alarming changes in her hair during pregnancy, it is important to speak with a doctor. Dry brittle hair caused by lack of iron can also cause hair loss.
Hair can also begin falling out post pregnancy. Don’t be surprised if all that beautiful new growth begins to fall out. This is very normal to experience three to six months after delivery. It may take a couple of hair growth cycles, which can equal a couple of years, for hair to grow back to its normal state, especially if it is typically worn long.
For keeping your hair healthy during and after pregnancy is to stay in constant contact with your doctor to keep hormones properly balanced. Certain hairstyles that damage the follicles should also be avoided. These include cornrows, hair weaves, braids, pigtails, pony tails, and the use of tight rollers. The damage that can be done could possibly result in hair loss. Keeping to a diet consisting primarily of fruits and vegetables will protect the hair follicle and also help encourage hair growth. Shampoos and conditioners that are well balanced in nutrients can also provide for a healthy head of hair.
There are hair loss treatments available for women. It is important for any woman to use the treatment that is designed specifically for women. However, before trying theses products, we strongly recommend discussing this with your doctor. Go over all of the ingredients in the products with your doctor, especially if you are expecting. Doctors’ best know what products or ingredients you need to stay away from during your pregnancy, keeping you and your baby safe and healthy.













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