A hair fall pregnancy symptom is normal. During pregnancy, many women experience hair-fall although post-delivery hair loss is more common in comparison.
The hormone oestrogen is responsible for good hair in pregnant women as it prevents the hair follicle from falling. But some women experience hair loss during pregnancy for health reasons or on account of hormonal imbalances.
Here are the common causes of pregnancy hair loss:
Inadequate nutrition and a deficiency of iron, vitamins, and minerals can cause hair loss during pregnancy.
A combination of stress, fear and nervousness during pregnancy may lead to hair fall and thinning.
Health conditions like gestational diabetes may cause hair loss, and so can certain medications for blood pressure or depression.
Consult a doctor if there is hair loss in some areas of your scalp as this can be caused by skin allergies and scalp infections.
Certain shampoos and hair conditioners contain harmful chemicals that may cause hair loss as your hair and skin is extra sensitive during pregnancy. Avoid these.
You could reduce hair loss by doing the following:
This can also increase hair growth. Massage your hair religiously at least twice a week. Choose natural oils like coconut, jojoba, almond, olive etc. Apply lukewarm oil to massage your scalp before bedtime or a couple of hours before your bath. This improves blood circulation and the minerals of the oil seep deep into the layers of your scalp, nourishing and strengthening those hair follicles.
A healthy diet packed with minerals, proteins, and vitamins ensures that the body gets the lost nutrients and enhances hair health. Include fresh fruit and veggies rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, minerals, and vitamins. Drinking lots of fluids is a must to flush out toxins from the body.
Don’t use hair dyes, styling and straightening products because the chemicals in them may cause hair loss during pregnancy. Comb your hair gently using a wide-bristled comb. Avoid using a wet comb that causes further hair loss.
Use tried and tested natural hair products like an effective natural shampoo and a nutrient-rich conditioner that strengthens those hair follicles.
Some home remedies are effective for hair fall in pregnancy:
A head massage with lukewarm oil is a great natural therapy. Coconut, almond, jojoba, olive and mustard oils enhance scalp nourishment.
Aloe-Vera extracts are extensively used to treat skin disorders. Apply the gel on your scalp to cure dryness and infection thereby reducing hair fall.
Natural products are safe. It’s advisable to use organic products for your hair.
The medicinal herb, Neem, battles hair fall brought about by skin infections thanks to its antibacterial properties. Apply a paste of fresh Neem leaves on to your scalp to prevent bacterial growth.
Amla strengthens hair and is the best natural remedy for hair fall. You can either consume Amla powder orally or massage its oil onto your scalp.
Scalp nourishment is important. Prepare half a cup of fresh coconut milk and massage it into the scalp with your fingertips. Let it sit for about half an hour to get absorbed and then rinse it using a herbal shampoo.
Get silky and thick hair and also prevent hair loss! Just add one tablespoon of lemon juice to one beaten egg. Apply this mix to your scalp; let it rest for about half an hour, and rinse.
Give lustre to your hair and bring about hair growth! Soak fenugreek seeds overnight and make a fine paste. Massage your hair with the paste and rinse it after 3-4 hours.
Condition your hair deeply with a mix of egg, yoghurt, and olive oil. Make a paste with equal quantities of these three ingredients and apply on your scalp once a week.
Here are a few tips to help you take care of your hair during and post pregnancy.
Did you enjoy reading this article? Do you have some tips or home remedies to reduce hair fall during and after pregnancy? We’d love to hear from you. Do write in!
Q & A
You ask and we answer!
Is it common to lose hair during pregnancy?
Shagun Narang, Chandigarh.
Some women may experience hair thinning and shedding due to stress or shock. This condition is called telogen effluvium, and it affects a small number of women during pregnancy. The first trimester may stress the body as the balance of hormones shifts dramatically to support the growing baby.
How can I make my hair grow faster while pregnant?
Manisha Lamba, Navi Mumbai.
Use a wide-toothed comb when brushing wet hair and use the cool setting on your hairdryer. Massage warm coconut or sesame oil into your scalp two to three times a week to stimulate growth and reduce hair fall.