Four ways to deal with postpartum shedding

The journey to motherhood has its ups and downs. One of the things that shocks many women is postpartum shedding. If, after childbirth, you notice your hair falling out, there is no need to panic because shedding is pretty common among most new mothers.

For some women, their hair becomes thicker and stronger during pregnancy thanks to high levels of the hormone oestrogen. However, due to factors such as hormones, the stresses of motherhood or medical conditions that come with pregnancy, some mums may experience postpartum shedding. Below, we share some advice on how to deal with post-partum shedding.

1. You are not alone

The average person loses approximately 100 strands of hair per day, and according to the American Pregnancy Association, around 40% to 50% of women will experience postpartum shedding. That is a pretty large number of women.

Don’t beat yourself up, you’re still a strong, beautiful mother. You just brought life into the world and that is something to be extremely proud of! Losing hair is the perfect time to try new hairstyles. Whether it’s a wig or a new hair colour or cut, try to positively salvage the situation.

2. Be gentle with your hair

Since your hair is quite fragile during this period, ditch the rough combing and tight hairstyles. Doing so will reduce breakage, giving your hair a chance to grow back and retain its length. In the same breath, avoid using too much heat on your hair. Excess heat weakens your hair strands, making them even more fragile than they already are.

The number one thing you need to do is to stick to hairstyles that keep your hands out of your hair, that way your hair will have a chance to flourish. Be particularly careful with your hairline so that it grows back to its full glory.

3. Eat nutritious food

A healthy eating plan can curb postpartum shedding. Focus on ingesting enough protein, iron and other nutritious food options. Also, incorporate fruits and vegetable that contain flavonoids and antioxidants which encourage hair growth and provide protection for the hair follicles.

Some fruits and vegetables that contain flavonoids are apples, broccoli, onions, strawberries, blueberries and red grapes. In a matter of time, your hair will be back to its original state, or even better than what it was. All will be well.

4. Consider nutritional supplements

Consuming supplements will help you deal with this large amount of shedding hair. Make sure you get the green light from your doctor first. The American Pregnancy Association recommends Vitamin B complex, Biotin (B7), Iron, Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Zinc.

These nutrients are already present in a number of foods, though there is no harm in purchasing the potent version of them. Just make sure that your doctor is in the know and that you purchase good quality supplements that will not harm you or your new-born baby.