Why Does Hair Loss Occur After Childbirth or a Serious Illness?

The average person has approximately 80,000-120,000 hairs and may naturally shed up to 100 hairs per day. Postpartum hair loss can cause more than 100 hairs to fall out each day.

Hair loss can result from many causes. One condition commonly found after childbirth or a serious illness is known medically as telogen effluvium. Why does it happen, and why does hair begin to fall out after childbirth or severe illness?

What Causes Hair Loss After Childbirth or a Serious Illness?

Hair loss after childbirth or serious illness often begins approximately two to three months after the body experiences significant physical or emotional stress.

Possible triggers include:

๐ A prolonged illness

๐ Major surgery

๐ A serious infection

๐ Severe physical or emotional stress

Postpartum hair loss is also associated with hormonal changes during and after pregnancy.

During pregnancy, hormonal changes keep a larger number of hairs in the active growth phase, known as the anagen phase. After childbirth, many of these hairs suddenly enter the resting phase, known as the telogen phase, at approximately the same time. These hairs then begin to shed several months later.

Postpartum women commonly experience moderate, widespread hair shedding. It may be especially noticeable on the pillow, in the shower, or while brushing the hair.

Although the hair may appear thinner across parts of the scalp, large completely bald patches are uncommon in typical telogen effluvium.

How Can Hair Loss After Childbirth or Serious Illness Be Managed?

Because one of the main causes of telogen effluvium is physical or emotional stress, it is important to identify and address the underlying trigger whenever possible.

Ways to manage postpartum or post-illness hair loss may include:

๐ Using medication that supports hair growth when prescribed by a doctor

๐ Taking a multivitamin or iron supplement when a deficiency has been identified

๐ Taking biotin supplements when medically appropriate to support healthy hair

๐ Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables every day, with a recommended intake of at least 400 grams and a range of different colours

๐ Washing and brushing the hair gently to minimise unnecessary breakage and shedding

๐ Avoiding tight hairstyles that pull on the scalp and hair roots

๐ Avoiding excessive heat from hair dryers and using a cooler airflow instead

For people whose hair loss is caused by hormonal changes related to pregnancy and childbirth, shedding usually improves naturally once the body returns to its normal hormonal balance.

In many cases, no specific treatment is required, and normal hair growth gradually resumes over time.

 

Reference :

THE KLINIQUE Telogen Effluvium

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