Hormonal fluctuations and nutritional gaps during pregnancy and the postpartum period are causing significant hair weakening and loss in many women, according to a report by elmostrador.cl.
While high estrogen levels were once thought to extend the hair growth phase, recent findings show that the delicate hormonal balance can be disrupted by various physiological stressors.
Physical and emotional stress, along with deficiencies in iron, zinc, and B vitamins, contribute to a more fragile hair cycle. Conditions such as anemia and thyroid alterations also play a role in accelerating hair loss, the outlet reported.
Dr. Manuela Salas, a trichologist and head of hair treatments at Clínica Terré, emphasized that any medical intervention during this period requires extreme caution.
“There are specific nutritional supplements for postpartum patients that, by correcting deficiencies, can improve hair quality,” Salas said.
She added that while some gentle topical treatments or non-invasive dermatological procedures may be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, patients must avoid any product or technique not specifically indicated for this stage.
Nutrition and Scalp Care
Dietary intake remains a primary tool for mitigating hair loss when prevention is not fully possible. Experts recommend prioritizing proteins, iron, and healthy fats to support the hair follicle.
“Nutrition plays a fundamental role here,” Salas noted. “It is recommended to prioritize foods rich in proteins such as eggs, legumes, and well-cooked fish; iron, found in lean meats, spinach, and lentils; zinc, found in nuts and seeds; and omega-3 fatty acids.”
She also suggested incorporating antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables to maintain scalp health.
Clínica Terré has addressed these physiological shifts through its “Embarazo vital” program, which focuses on nutritional recovery for mothers. The program targets nutrient replenishment and hormone balancing to assist with postpartum recovery.
“One of the aspects we address... is postnatal recovery, including support for breastfeeding, replacing lost nutrients, and strategies to increase energy and balance hormones, which directly affects hair health,” Salas explained.
Daily hair care routines should also shift toward gentler methods. Specialists advise using mild shampoos, performing scalp massages to stimulate circulation, and avoiding hairstyles that create tension.
Women should also avoid aggressive chemical straightening, bleaching, or excessive heat use. Salas concluded that this type of hair loss is typically temporary and is a component of the broader physical and emotional changes women undergo during motherhood.
