Postpartum Hair Loss: Causes and Nutrient-Packed Solutions

 

Introduction

Many women develop postpartum hair loss, often known as postpartum alopecia, shortly after giving birth. Hormonal changes and vitamin deficiency are the root cause of postpartum hair loss. During pregnancy, a woman's body experiences hormonal changes, such as elevated progesterone and estrogen levels. Pregnancy-related hormonal changes prolong the hair's growth period, giving rise to fuller, thicker hair.

 

The levels of other hormones, including estrogen, rapidly decrease after childbirth. The hair growth cycle may change due to sudden hormonal changes. There is an increase in hair loss when more hair follicles than usual enter the resting phase (telogen phase). It does not need to be concerned about this shedding, as it is a typical natural reaction.

Causes of postpartum hair loss:

 

1. Hormonal Changes:

One major cause is the abrupt drop in estrogen levels following childbirth. It is well-recognized that estrogen encourages hair development and that a decrease in estrogen might result in more hair loss.

This may occur following significant physical changes, such as childbirth. Pregnancy causes the body to undergo several changes, and hormones swiftly shift after childbirth.

2. Telogen Effluvium:

A common kind of hair loss called telogen effusion is indicated by a higher-than-average number of hair follicles entering the resting period. It frequently happens following significant physiological changes, such as delivery.

Consider that your hair experiences distinct stages, like a cycle. Your hair goes through two phases: the active phase, when it grows actively, and the resting phase, when it grows slowly. Like when more hair than usual chooses to take a vacation all at once, that is what Telogen Effluvium is like.

 

As a result, several hair follicles—tiny pockets in your skin from which hair grows—enter the resting phase simultaneously during this period. You may thus realize that you are losing more hair than usual.

Fortunately, telogen effluvium is usually temporary.  As your body adjusts and your hormones return to normal, the hair growth cycle should also get back on track, and you'll likely see less hair shedding over time. It's a natural process that takes many months to a year for most women to experience hair growth again.

3. Genetics:

The cause of postpartum hair loss can be influenced by a woman's hereditary predisposition to hair loss.

 

4. Stress:

The difficulties of caring for a newborn, combined with the mental and physical strain of childbirth, can lead to hair loss.

1. Stress on the body:

Imagine that you have just finished an arduous workout or a long race. Is your body experiencing fatigue? Well, giving birth is like a super intense workout, and your body goes through a lot. Your muscles may get sore from this physical strain, and it may take some time to heal.

2. Stress on an emotional level:

When was the last time you had anxiety or were overloaded with several thoughts? Imagine having to look after a newborn child—that's a lot of responsibilities! This may cause you to experience some emotional tension. You may feel overwhelmed by the work ahead or worry that you are doing everything perfectly for your child.

Putting It Together:

Changes in your hair, such as greater than typical shedding, can be caused by physical and mental exhaustion.

Feeling this way after delivering a baby is completely normal and a natural part of the process. Your body and mind are undergoing lots of instability, and in time, things usually start to settle down. Talking to someone you trust, such as a friend, family member, or medical advisor, who can provide support and guidance, is usually a good choice if something feels overwhelming.

 

5. Nutritional Factors:

Inadequate intake of vitamins and minerals or a poor diet affect the quality of your hair. The following nutrients are frequently linked to the health of hair:

 

• Biotin (Vitamin B7):

  

  Packed with nutrients like folic
  acid, vitamin E, and calcium

often known as biotin, is a water-soluble B vitamin frequently suggested to support healthy skin, hair, and nails. It's involved in the production of keratin, a protein that forms the basis of hair.

• Vitamin D:

Vitamin D is essential for health as it may play a role in hair follicle health. A few studies indicate a connection between hair loss and a vitamin D deficit.

True Elements Raw
 White Sesame Seeds

 

• Iron:

The delivery of oxygen to the hair follicles depends on iron. Hair loss may be caused by anemia or low iron levels.

 

• Zinc:

Zinc is a necessary component for the growth and maintenance of hair. It contributes to the health of hair follicles and helps them operate.

 

• Vitamin E:

As an antioxidant, vitamin E aids in preventing damage to hair follicles. It can be found in several foods, such as leafy greens, nuts, and seeds.

 

• Vitamin A:

Vitamin A is necessary for sebum production, which keeps the scalp hydrated. Excessive intake of vitamin A supplements can be harmful, so it's best to get them through a balanced diet.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

  
  

  Packed with omega-3 fatty acids,
  fiber and antioxidants, these flaxseeds
  are a nutritional powerhouse.

  
  

These vital fatty acids can support the health of your hair generally and are present in flaxseed and fish oils.

These vitamins and minerals can be found in foods and used to make a healthy laddoo (sweet ball). This is a basic recipe for a laddoo that provides postpartum nutrition:

 

Nutrients packed solution- Postpartum Laddoo Recipe

Certainly! You can make a nutritious laddoo (sweet ball) using ingredients that contain the vitamins and minerals mentioned earlier. Here's a simple recipe for a postpartum nutrition laddoo:

Nutrient-rich Postpartum Laddoo Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Almonds (rich in biotin and vitamin E)
• 1 cup Walnuts (source of omega-3 fatty acids)
• 1 cup Flaxseeds (rich in omega-3 fatty acids)
• 1 cup Sesame Seeds (good source of zinc and iron)
• 1 cup Pumpkin Seeds (which contain zinc and iron)
• 1 cup Dates (high in iron and vitamin A)
• 1/2 cup Ghee (clarified butter)
• 1 cup Jaggery (natural sweetener and source of iron)
• 1 teaspoon Cardamom powder (optional, for flavor)

Instructions:

*Roasting Nuts and Seeds:

In a hot pan, dry roast the walnuts, pumpkin seeds, flaxseeds, sesame seeds, and almonds individually until a nutty smell arises. Let them cool.

*Blending:

Grind the roasted nuts and seeds into a coarse powder in a food processor.

*Date Paste:

Remove the dates' pits and process them into a paste. If necessary, add a small amount of water.

*Mixing the Ingredients:

Combine the cardamom powder, date paste, and nut-seed powder in a large mixing bowl.

*Ghee Mixture:

In a separate pan, melt ghee. Add the melted ghee to the nut-seed-date mixture.

Packed with essential minerals
like iron and vitamins, this jaggery
 serves as a healthier alternative
 to refined sugar.

*Sweetening agent:

Include the jaggery in the blend. Depending on your preferred level of sweetness, adjust the amount.

*Blending Completely:

Thoroughly combine all the ingredients to create a sticky, dough-like mixture.

*Shaping Laddoos:

Small quantities of the mixture should be formed into round balls called laddoos.

*Cooling:

Let the laddoos get to room temperature by cooling.

Notes: You can alter the recipe by including additional nutrient-dense items like dried fruits, chia seeds, or even a spoonful of powdered fenugreek seeds (which may help with breastfeeding).

The laddoos should be kept in an airtight container. They can be eaten as a dessert or as a snack.

                                              How I Coped With Extreme Hair Loss After Pregnancy 

Conclusion-

Not to worry, most women experience a gradual return to normal hair development within six to twelve months of having a baby. Postpartum hair loss is a short-term condition. It is best to speak with a healthcare provider for individualized guidance and comfort if you are worried about the degree or duration of postpartum hair loss or have any other health issues.