Postpartum Hair Loss

Beauty of the Second Trimester

You’ve made it through the first trimester which may have been rough due to some not so fun pregnancy symptoms like constant nausea or the mental exhaustion of working through so many emotions. Whatever your first trimester looked like its still such a relief to reach your second. Reality is finally setting in, you’re going to be a mommy and you're so happy, beaming with that pregnancy glow! During this time you may notice your skin is clear and glowy, that your hair is full and luscious, and you may just feel good overall. This is all thanks to an increase in blood flow and fluctuating pregnancy hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Enjoy this time, dress it up and make it real if you will! Because after birth, those hormones and that blood volume are going to go through a similar fluctuation.

Truth about the Fourth Trimester

You’ve had your baby and have relished in all that new motherhood and postpartum has to offer. After 9 months of fluctuating hormones you're rewarded with a beautiful blessing and more hormonal fluctuation.

During the postpartum period there is a decrease of estrogen and progesterone hormones which can have varying effects on the body, including an increase of hair shedding. You may begin to notice a few extra strands of hair everywhere… except your head! If you’re breastfeeding, those strands will hang around until you decide to wean.

Luckily, this is all normal. Now that the baby is out, your body is trying to get rid of everything else it came with. Around month 3 or 4 postpartum is when most women begin to notice an increase of hair shedding which should go back to normal around the baby’s first birthday. If the shedding seems extreme or doesn’t end by then, suggest seeking medical advice from a dermatologist as it may be other underlying issues that can be resolved.

It is important to note that everyone’s body is different and may or may not experience postpartum alopecia. But its just as important to note that if this is happening to you…its normal!

Having a newborn and just trying to balance life is a lot, you don’t deserve to stress about your hair as well. Many women take this time to try a new hairstyle or even the big chop… what a beautiful way to mark a moment. Whether this feels like a compromise or an invigorating change, take comfort in knowing the hair shedding won’t last forever!

If you or someone you know are in need of doula services, please email Jenesis.doula@gmail.com