Postpartum hair loss home remedies

The postpartum period is one of the most hectic and stressful periods in a woman's life. The last thing you need during this time is to stress over losing your hair. It may start slowly, but thicker strands of hair may start to fall out in the shower, as well as more strands on your brushes and on the bathroom floor.

We understand your terror, but don't panic; postpartum hair loss is a natural phenomenon of your body. As per a study by the American Academy of Dermatology(AAD), after pregnancy, many new moms experience a lot of hair shedding.

Causes of postpartum hair loss?

As per AAD, on average, we lose 50-100 hair per day. However, during pregnancy, the elevated levels of oestrogen interrupt this process, and most of our hair enters the resting phase of the hair cycle. As a result, rather than falling out, our hair stays on our heads, giving us the desired volume. Hormone levels rise during pregnancy, causing your hair to spend more time in the resting phase known as telogen.

However, after giving birth, you may notice that all of the hair you didn't lose during your pregnancy begins to fall out and shed. This is why, in the months following your baby's delivery, you may experience postpartum hair loss.

Postpartum hair loss, also known as telogen effluvium, is a common condition that occurs due to hormonal changes after childbirth. Here are the key causes:

• Hormonal Changes

  During pregnancy, high levels of estrogen prolong the hair growth phase (anagen phase), resulting in thicker, fuller hair. After childbirth, estrogen levels drop rapidly, triggering excessive hair shedding (telogen phase) within 2-4 months.

• Nutritional Deficiencies

  New mothers often experience nutrient depletion due to pregnancy and breastfeeding. Deficiencies in iron, biotin (B7), zinc, vitamin D, and protein can weaken hair follicles, leading to increased hair fall.

• Physical and Emotional Stress

  Childbirth is physically demanding, and postpartum recovery can be stressful. Lack of sleep, emotional stress, and adapting to new routines can trigger hair loss, as stress hormones impact the hair growth cycle.

• Postpartum Thyroid Imbalance

  Some women develop postpartum thyroiditis, a temporary thyroid disorder that affects hormone levels. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can lead to excessive hair shedding, fatigue, and weight gain.

• Blood Loss During Delivery

  Excessive blood loss during childbirth can lead to low iron levels (anemia), which affects oxygen supply to hair follicles, weakening them and causing hair fall.

• Breastfeeding and Hormonal Influence

  Prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production, may also contribute to hair thinning. While breastfeeding itself does not directly cause hair loss, the hormonal shifts during lactation may prolong the shedding phase.

• Scalp Health and Hair Care Routine

  Frequent hair washing, heat styling, and tight hairstyles (like ponytails or buns) can strain hair follicles, making them more prone to breakage and shedding.

Is Hair Loss After Childbirth Permanent?

Hair loss increases after having a baby; however, this does not mean you will lose your hair permanently. Over time, your hair should return to its normal growth patterns. By the time your child is a year old, you can expect your hair to be as full at the roots as it usually is. However, it will be shorter than the existing hair on your head.

You should consult your homeopathic doctor nearby if your hair continues to thin or does not appear to be growing back. Other health problems, such as anemia or a thyroid problem, could cause extreme hair loss

Food to prevent hair fall

Preventing hair loss and preserving excellent health can be as simple as eating a balanced and nutritious diet during and after pregnancy. To recover all of your body's lost minerals and nutrients, drink enough water and eat a well-balanced diet.

To maintain a healthy diet, make sure to incorporate foods from these categories:

• Oysters, fatty fish, and shrimp
• Flax seeds and nuts
• Berries and fruits
• Spinach and other green leafy veggies
• Sweet potatoes
• Eggs
• Beans

Antioxidant-rich foods offer good protection to hair follicles. Vitamins A, C, D, and E, as well as vital proteins like biotin, should be included in your daily diet.

Postpartum hair loss home remedies

Here's a list of postpartum home remedies for hair fall to minimize your hair fall:

• Indian Gooseberry (Amla)

  Amla, also known as Indian Gooseberry, has been used historically for hair nourishment. It is a great tonic that can be directly added to your diet in the form of a juice or boiled in coconut oil until black and then massaged into your hair with the same oil.

• Yogurt

  Yogurt is a wonderful hair conditioner with numerous advantages. A Yogurt massage on the scalp and hair regularly will strengthen the hair follicles and restore them. Apply once or twice a week for 15 minutes and then rinse and shampoo your hair well.

• Fenugreek seeds

  Fenugreek seeds, also known as methi, can help you combat hair loss in the most miraculous way possible. Soak some fenugreek seeds in water overnight and use them, the next day, apply the filtered water to the scalp and keep it on for two hours. This water will not only make your hair healthy but will also treat dandruff and hairfall.

• Ginger Infused Oil

  Ginger-infused oils are high in minerals they can be used as natural hair conditioners to make hair more manageable, smoother, and shinier! Ginger is also anti-inflammatory and antibacterial, which helps to keep the scalp clean.

• Avocado and coconut milk hair mask

  Avocados are high in vitamins that help in the production of collagen in the body. Coconut milk is high in proteins, which is necessary for healthy hair growth.Take a ripe avocado and mash it thoroughly with a tablespoon of coconut milk, allow it to dry after applying to the scalp, use natural hair shampoo to remove it.

Postpartum hair loss and Homeopathy

Homeopathic treatment for hair loss helps in the rebalancing of hormones in the body. Homeopathic medications for hair loss are made from natural materials and have no side effects. The absence of hazardous side effects is the main benefit of using homeopathy to treat hair loss.

Homeopathic treatment does not suppress symptoms to provide temporary comfort but instead addresses the root cause of hair loss. Homeopathic medications are suitable for people of all ages and stages of life, including pregnant and lactating women.

You can read a detailed article on Female Pattern Baldness.

Conclusion

At Dr Batra's® our homeopathic specialist creates an individualized hair treatment plan based on the medical science of homeopathy. Our treatment comprises homeopathic prescriptions, lifestyle and hair care advice for the patient's overall health. Dr Batra's® has successfully treated over 1 million hair patients.

With over 35 years of experience, Dr Batra’s® is a trusted name in treating hair loss problems. To get effective, natural and long-lasting solutions, book an appointment with us today.

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