Pregnancy brings with it a lot of changes to your body along with plus size maternity clothes and while some of these are natural, like weight loss or even mood shifts, there are a few which can be undesirable such as hair loss.

During this phase, estrogen levels rise in order to support the baby and this elevation of the same can affect the hair shedding process. Here are some reasons why hair fall happens and how you can prevent the same -

• Hormonal shifts -

The hormone changes that are present in the early pregnancy phase is not a joke. This can trigger the telogen effluvium which is a stress-induced reason for hair loss.

In response to the trauma, shock or stress, the body ends up displacing more than 30% of the hair.

Solution - In most cases, this condition tends to resolve on its own after your body finds its hormonal balance back naturally. However, if it doesn’t, you can visit a dermatologist and they can refer a few medicines which will aid in the process.

• Underlying health issues -

There might be underlying health issues as growing a baby can take a lot of effort and increase the risk of health issues, which include -

• High blood pressure

• Gestational diabetes

• Hormonal imbalances

• Vitamin deficiencies

Solution - In these cases, identifying the underlying cause is important and if you have a pre-existing condition, you can continue taking any previous medication. If it’s a new condition, you can talk to a doctor for professional help. Consuming vitamin tablets can be a start and help you regain the balance.

• Thyroid problems -

Hormone levels can sometimes fluctuate to a dangerous zone sometimes and issues such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can cause loss of hair. There are other signs of hypothyroidism which can affect up to 2 to 3 percent of pregnant women, including -

• Exhaustion

• Constipation

• Cramps

Solution - Hypothyroidism risk increases once you’ve given birth and up to 10%. Thyroid issues can be treated where a doctor can order a diagnosis for a blood test and understand the treatment option.

• Iron deficiency -

Pregnancy can also increase the risk of anemia which is an iron deficiency. If you’re having incidences of severe morning sickness or got pregnant, the risk can be higher.

This can cause the thinning of hair, along with many other symptoms including an irregular heartbeat, exhaustion, breathing shortness and frequent headaches.

Solutions - Since anemia isn’t a condition that’s relegated to pregnancy, there are chances that the hair won’t get the shine and volume back until the iron levels are addressed. Talk to a doctor, or consider solutions such as eating nuts or using onion oil to ensure the smoothness remains intact and hairfall is prevented to a certain extent. Don’t worry, with time it’ll solve itself and you’ll be back to your beautiful best once again!

Now that you know there are solutions, breathe easy and start anticipating the moment when you would swaddle baby with blanket for the first time.