QUESTION: I have two month old and am breastfeeding and have noticed that I am losing a lot of hair do you have any suggestions of things that I can try which are safe while breastfeeding? ANSWER: Women commonly lose hair following pregnancy due to hormonal changes. Many women experience an increase in hair growth during pregnancy and some of this extra hair growth tends to be shed post partum and is not of concern in relation to your health. However if the hair loss seems excessive there are some other things to consider. Without knowing more about your situation, this is general advice only. Are there any concerns regrading your thyroid? If you have a history of any thyroid issues you may want to have it checked out. Postpartum changes in thyroid function are quite common and hair loss can be sign of a thyroid issue. Are you getting enough protein, minerals and other nutrients? Nutrient needs increase in pregnancy and this continues whilst breastfeeding, so it is wise to continue with a natal multivitamin whist breastfeeding also, as well as making sure that you are eating really well. If your iron was low towards the end of the pregnancy or you lost a lot of blood at the birth, you may want to have your iron levels checked as low iron can affect your hair. The other vitamin to check out would be your Vitamin D. Something completely safe that you can try whilst breastfeeding is drinking stinging nettle tea. It is very mineral rich so is a great way to top up your intake of nutrients and it can also strengthen hair and nails. Consider also whether your digestion or stress levels could be contributing.
Posted on: Mon, 12 May 2014 01:40:51 +0000