The Truth About Your Body After Baby

True. Up to 50 percent of women experience an increased shedding period after giving birth. "It's called telogen effluvium and it occurs anywhere from one to six months after giving birth," says Francesca Fusco, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City. During pregnancy there's a boost in hormones, which slows the shedding process and thickens the hair. As hormones balance out after delivery, the hair returns to its normal growing and shedding cycle. To maintain healthy hair and reduce some hair loss Fusco suggests eating foods high in protein, iron, zinc, flavenoids, antioxidants, and silica, which are all beneficial nutrients for a healthy scalp and hair.