If minoxidil has been used before pregnancy it is important that this is stopped as soon as pregnancy is confirmed as there are possibilities of birth defects. Although this has not been proven in humans test done on animals has shown defects when minoxidil is absorbed by the skin.
For women, being pregnant brings many changes to the body and this can also affect the hair. During pregnancy there was a high level of oestrogen in the body to help with the baby’s development and this also gives the woman a healthy glow and a time when the hair looks healthy and thick.
The hair has a three stage cycle and during pregnancy this cycle can be upset as many hairs stay in the anagen or first phase for longer meaning the hair looks thicker. After pregnancy the hormone levels get back to normal the hairs that have stayed in the first phase for too long then go on to the telogen phase or resting phase and therefore on the final stage more hair is lost due to this build-up. The hair looks thinner and is known as postpartum hair loss due to its thinning and possible patches. This will soon be back to normal and is usually within the first year.
Breastfeeding can also take a lot out of a woman’s body and it is important to ensure sufficient nutrients are taken to maintain healthy body and hair. If hair is still seems to be thin or coming out in greater amounts it is important to seek the advice of the hair specialist who will be able to gather information and take blood tests to ensure there was no underlying reason for loss of hair. It could be that pregnancy brought on the early stages of pattern hair loss and this will be able to be treated with minoxidil.
If men are using minoxidil during their partners pregnancy they can continue to use this without causing any harm, however, if they are using Propecia, treatment that can only you be used by men, they must stop using it during the pregnancy and breastfeeding. Afterbirth and breastfeeding the woman can go back to using minoxidil which will help stop hair loss and help with the regrowth in those with genetic baldness.
Any loss of hair can be devastating and after having a thick head of hair during pregnancy flick to go thin just as the body is getting back to normal can be hard. Ensuring a well-balanced diet with plenty of protein, vitamins and sufficient iron will help to ensure that the hair follicles receive the nutrients they need. A good shampoo and conditioner that hold no additives or astringents, gently massaged into the scalp and hair will not only stimulate the scalp to encourage blood flow to the hair follicles, it will also give the hair a shiny, thick look. These self-help ways do work and as often happens in pregnancy a healthy diet is not always possible due to sickness and so vitamins and minerals need to be built up into the body again.
Stress after a baby is born, particularly for first-time mothers, is common as is postnatal depression and these two can have an effect on the condition of hair and why it is so important to seek the advice of a professional to see what action can be taken. Hair is an important part of an individual’s looks as is getting back into shape after having had a baby, so it is important for women to feel that they have a good head of hair.
