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According to obstetrician Michael Randall of Atlanta, Georgia, about 10 percent of women experience postpartum hair loss. Hair loss usually begins 1 to 3 months after childbirth and continues for a few months. Hair then begins to regrow on its own. Treatment is usually not needed.
Hormonal Changes
During pregnancy, an increase in estrogen often causes hair to grow thicker than usual. After childbirth, estrogen levels decrease and some hair falls out.
Medications
There are a number of medications that can cause hair loss as a side effect, including blood thinners, antidepressants, anti-inflammatory drugs and oral contraceptives. Of course, not all women take such medications after childbirth, but some do.
Stress
Severe stress triggers hair loss in some people. The postpartum period can be a very stressful time, so this may be an issue for some women.
Causes Unrelated to Pregnancy or Childbirth
If hair loss is very severe, it may not be related to pregnancy or childbirth. Women experiencing severe postpartum hair loss should discuss the problem with their doctor.
Breastfeeding
Since hair loss typically does not begin until 1 or more months after childbirth, women sometimes mistakenly assume breastfeeding is causing their hair loss. This is not true. Breastfeeding does not cause hair loss in postpartum women.
Source:
Pregnancy Today: Postpartum Telogen Effluvium
Bernstein Medical: Causes of Hair Loss in Women
Mayo Clinic: Can Stress Cause Hair Loss?
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