Does postpartum hair loss require calcium supplementation?

Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
Updated on November 02, 2024
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Postpartum hair loss is a normal physiological phenomenon caused by changes in hormone levels in the body. Postpartum hair loss is also related to calcium deficiency, so calcium supplementation is possible. However, calcium deficiency is not the main cause of postpartum hair loss. The main reason is the decrease in estrogen levels in the body, which causes the hair follicles to enter a shedding state from a resting state. At this time, it is important to enhance nutrition, eat more foods rich in protein and vitamins, and ensure adequate sleep to regulate the body's immunity. Once the body is well-regulated, such hair loss will generally recover naturally.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Postpartum hair loss starts from when?

Postpartum hair loss generally occurs around two to three months after childbirth and usually stops on its own within six months, typically not lasting longer than one year. Postpartum hair loss is actually a resting state of the scalp for the mother, and is a physiological phenomenon. There are various reasons for postpartum hair loss, such as insufficient sleep during pregnancy, significant blood loss and anemia during childbirth, and inadequate nutrition during pregnancy. Additionally, hormonal changes during the postpartum period and breastfeeding can also cause hair loss. It is important not to be overly anxious about postpartum hair loss. Paying attention to nutrition and ensuring adequate sleep can help alleviate the condition on its own.

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Written by Li Jiao Yan
Neonatology
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What to do about child hair loss?

When children experience hair loss, and if the hair loss is substantial, it is definitely necessary to conduct some relevant examinations. It could be due to a deficiency of nutrients, like a lack of trace elements, which can also lead to hair loss. If the hair loss is particularly severe, it is advisable to visit a dermatologist and then conduct some relevant treatments based on the child's condition.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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Is postpartum hair loss due to iron deficiency?

Postpartum hair loss is not largely related to iron deficiency. It is mainly due to significant hormonal changes in postpartum women. A drop in estrogen levels causes hair follicles to enter the shedding phase. Moreover, the mental stress associated with postpartum life, combined with the fatigue of caring for a baby, can exacerbate hair loss. The most severe period of hair loss occurs 3 to 4 months after delivery, and generally, by 6 to 12 months postpartum, the condition tends to improve and usually does not require special treatment. In daily life, it is beneficial to consume foods rich in protein and vitamins to help improve this condition. In cases of severe hair loss, medication can also be taken under the guidance of a doctor.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
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What are the common causes of hair loss?

The most common cause of hair loss is generally related to genetic factors. For instance, if parents experience hair loss, their children are likely to encounter the same issue. Hair loss can also be associated with hormonal imbalances; an excessive secretion of male hormones can lead to hair loss. It is related to infection factors as well, such as infection with Malassezia bacteria on the scalp, which can cause erythema and papules on the head, and significant hair loss with dandruff. Psychological factors also play a significant role in hair loss. Excessive mental stress, anxiety, and poor sleep can lead to the release of stress-related substances by the body, causing the hair follicle growth cycle to shorten and leading to hair loss. Therefore, it is advisable to visit a dermatology department at a reputable hospital for a timely examination to identify the specific causes and undergo treatment under a doctor's guidance with appropriate medications.

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Written by Zhang Jian Bo
Dermatology
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What are the causes of female hair loss?

There are genetic factors at play, with androgenetic alopecia being the most common form affecting both men and women. In men, the hair follicles in the balding areas are more susceptible to the effects and attacks of androgens, along with sensitivity causing the hair follicles to progressively shrink and eventually turn into vellus hair follicles, leading to clinical hair loss, folliculitis, stress, and anxiety, as well as smoking. Postpartum, some autoimmune diseases are also associated with androgenetic alopecia, including other autoimmune factors, exemplified by alopecia areata. Some patients with alopecia areata may also have other concurrent autoimmune diseases, such as goiter, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, vitiligo, etc. Excessive mental stress or sudden shock can also cause alopecia areata, telogen effluvium, and other types of hair loss.