Pregnancy is a time of hormonal upheaval for the mother-to-be. Among the many changes that can occur, hair loss is a common but often overlooked problem. This article gives you advice on how to manage this delicate situation and understand the causes of this phenomenon.

Why do we lose our hair during pregnancy?

Most pregnant women experience an increase in hair volume thanks to the specific hormones (estrogens) produced during pregnancy. However, some may also experience hair loss during this period. The main reasons for hair loss are :

• Hormonal fluctuations: in addition to estrogen, other hormones play a role in hair loss, notably androgens and progesterone, leading to moderate to severe hair loss in some women.
• Stress: Pregnancy can be a source of stress for many women, and stress is one of the triggers for hair loss.
• Nutritional deficiencies: An unbalanced diet during pregnancy can lead to even greater hair loss. Deficiencies in iron, vitamins or trace elements can impact hair health.
• Autoimmune diseases: Some women develop autoimmune diseases during pregnancy, which can lead to hair loss.

What can be done to limit hair loss during pregnancy?

There’s no miracle cure to stop hair loss completely during this period. However, there are some things you can do to minimize the phenomenon:

Adopt a balanced diet

Ensuring an adequate supply of the nutrients essential for healthy hair (iron, proteins, vitamins and minerals) helps prevent hair loss. We therefore recommend regular consumption of :

• Iron-rich foods such as green leafy vegetables, red meat and lentils;
• Protein sources such as eggs, fish, legumes and dairy products;
• Fruits and vegetables providing vitamins and minerals (vitamins A, B, C, E and zinc).

Use gentle hair care products

Opt for suitable, gentle hair care products, free from sulfates and parabens. Avoid aggressive chemical treatments (coloring, straightening) and limit the use of heated appliances (hair dryers, straighteners). When brushing, use a brush with soft bristles to avoid breaking or tearing the hair.

Massage the scalp regularly

Massaging the scalp stimulates blood circulation and promotes hair growth. Take a few minutes every day to gently massage your scalp, possibly using a suitable vegetable oil (castor, coconut, avocado).

Avoid stress

Managing stress is essential to limiting hair loss during pregnancy. Try relaxing activities such as yoga, meditation, reading or walking. Don’t hesitate to ask those around you for help, or consult a professional if necessary.

Post-pregnancy hair loss: getting back to your old hair

After giving birth, women often experience significant hair loss. This phenomenon, known as telogen effluvium, is linked to the return to normal of the hair cycle after pregnancy. The advice given above is still valid for this period. Patience is also essential, as hair regrowth can take several months.

In short, pregnant hair loss is a temporary phenomenon linked to various factors such as hormonal fluctuations, stress and nutritional deficiencies. Adopting a balanced diet, using gentle hair care products and avoiding stress are all ways of limiting hair loss. Hair will normally regain its density a few months after delivery.