Is it normal for your hair and skin to change after having a baby?

Question

I had a baby 6 months ago and my hair was falling out for a while and it feels really horrible and I can't do anything with it. My skin is also quite dry. Before I was pregnant my hair was pretty good and my skin was oily. Can this happen after having a baby?

Answer 1

It is completely normal to lose hair after giving birth. I thought I was going bald after I had my baby! Don't worry.. it will get back to normal. It is all about the hormones.

During the last three months of pregnancy, hormones are responsible for more hair follicles than normal entering the growth phase. About two or three months after childbirth, the normal hair growth cycle returns, and the new mother may notice more hair than usual in her brush or on the shower floor. Luckily, the shedding normally ends when hormones return to pre-pregnancy levels — usually after six months.

I noticed dry skin after pregnancy too. There are several reasons. I know part of my problem was dehydration. I just wasn't drinking enough. Another important factor is that, with a small child around, it's highly likely that you're washing your hands far more than you used to, either because you're changing your son or bathing him or washing his clothes. This can lead to mild inflammation, dryness and even cracking of the skin, especially of the hands because these are the parts getting wet. Make sure you are getting enough fluids, and moisturize as often as possible. If you don't notice any improvement, contact your doctor (just to rule out any underlying medical problems).

Answer 2

Because your hair is falling out it is very possible that you might have a thyroid problem. I have read somewhere in the past (as well as talked to a few people) that pregnancy can cause a thyroid problem to become apparent.

I would definitely recommend following up with your OB/GYN to have them evaluate the situation to see what they think could be causing this.