Hair loss after childbirth often makes women anxious. There are concerns that this condition causes baldness, thus reducing their self-confidence.
In fact, hair loss in new mothers is generally considered normal and is nothing to worry about. This condition usually occurs during the first few months after childbirth, sometimes up to a year. Over time, this condition will improve and the hair will grow back to normal.
Causes of hair loss after childbirth
Hair loss occurs every day and is a normal cycle of hair growth. However, in pregnant women, this cycle does not occur as usual.
This is because the level of the hormone estrogen in the body increases, thus prolonging the life phase of the hair.As a result, in pregnant women, the hair is thicker and hair loss is less.
During this time, after childbirth, estrogen production returns to normal levels and the hair growth cycle returns to its normal cycle. This is the reason for the significant hair loss compared to normal.
This condition usually lasts for the first few months after childbirth until the baby is five or six months old. In some cases, there are even those who experience this phase for up to a year.
In other words, postpartum hair loss is a condition closely related to hormone levels in the body. So, don't panic and think that your body is suffering from a lack of nutrition or vitamins.
How to Overcome Postpartum Hair Loss
Instead of worrying or panicking about postpartum hair loss, you can take the following hair care steps:
1. Treat your hair gently
By treating your hair gently, you can at least reduce its severity.The gentle treatment, among other things, the application of a hairstyle with minimal pressure. For this, avoid braiding, making a ponytail, and tying your hair into a ponytail.
Also make sure to comb your hair gently and slowly, especially when your hair is wet after shampooing. This is important because at this stage the condition of the hair is more fragile, so it has a tendency to fall out or break.
2. Reduce the use of blow dryers and straighteners
To avoid further damage to your hair, avoid using blow dryers and straighteners. If you feel uncomfortable with wet hair, make sure the tool you are using is set to a low power level.
3.Using Conditioner
Using conditioner can make your hair soft, shiny and easier to comb. But if the conditioner makes your hair thinner, softer, and softer, you can use shampoo that makes it supple.
4. Eat healthy foods
To promote hair growth, choose nutritious foods that contain a lot of protein and vitamins. These foods include eggs, milk, vegetables, and fruits.
Keep in mind that iron, vitamin D, vitamin C, magnesium, and omega3s are nutrients necessary for healthy hair.
5. Vitamin intake Vitamin
Supplements can help meet postnatal nutritional needs.It is recommended that you continue to take prenatal vitamins after your baby is born, especially if you are breast-feeding your baby. It is of course also useful in helping to maintain the health of the hair.
If the postpartum hair loss lasts more than a year or worsens after trying the above methods, it is advisable to see a doctor for proper medical treatment.