How to Prevent Postpartum Hair Loss

Estrogen levels decline after about four months after giving birth and can cause temporary hair loss lasting for up to six months, according to "Parents" magazine. During pregnancy, estrogen levels increase and hair that would normally fall out as part of daily shedding ceases to fall out. While unnerving, postpartum hair loss will resolve itself in time and isn't a major health concern. However, you can take steps to possibly prevent or mitigate hair loss after pregnancy.

Things You'll Need

  • Nutrient-rich foods
  • Multivitamin
  • Biotin supplement

Instructions

    • 1

      Increase your intake of foods rich in zinc, folic acid and B vitamins while you're pregnant, as it is theorized that pregnancy causes a slight deficiency in these nutrients. According to Nutrition for a Healthy Pregnancy, consuming dark green vegetables, extra-lean meats, whole grains and cooked dried peas and beans are good sources of these essential nutrients. Alternatively, you can take a multivitamin supplement daily.

    • 2

      Take 3 mg of a biotin supplement each day. Biotin is a necessary B-vitamin that plays a large role in healthy hair growth and is often lost during pregnancy, according to the Bastyr Center. Biotin deficiency, which affects approximately 50 percent of pregnant women, can also result in birth defects.

    • 3

      Avoid manipulating your hair with excessive brushing, blow drying, braiding or styling. Hair follicles during pregnancy are already weakened, and putting undue stress on your tresses will increase the potential for hair loss.

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