A New Beginning

HAIR LOSS Pregnancy changes your hair growth cycle. While you were pregnant your hair was in a resting phase, so you lost less of it. A few weeks after giving birth, you may find that

you are losing lots of hair. This is normal in the first 5 months after birth. Do not worry. Your hair will return to its normal growth cycle, but it may take 6 to 15 months.

SKIN CHANGES Pregnancy hormones may cause a blotchy face, a dark line across your lower abdomen, stretch marks, and other skin changes.

These usually go away completely or fade within several months after childbirth. Stretch marks may persist in 1/3 of women. Moisturizers may help.

EYE HEMORRHAGES Vigorous bearing down during labor may cause eye hemorrhages. They do not need treatment and will clear within a few weeks.

VARICOSE VEINS Increased pregnancy blood volume, hormone changes, an enlarged uterus, and the weight of the baby put pressure

on veins in your pelvis and slowed the blood return to your heart that led to swelling of smaller veins in your legs. Elevate your legs and wear elastic support hose if recommended by your provider.

Chapter Resources • American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) www.acog.org | ACOG Mobile App • National Partnership for Women & Families www.nationalpartnership.org | (202) 986-2600 • fitMom www.fitmomapp.com | fitMom Mobile App

24

A New Beginning