Hair loss and shedding can be a devastating occurrence. Most hair shedding is normal, and it is not uncommon for the average person to lose 50-100 hairs each day. However, excessive hair loss and shedding may be a valid cause for concern.

One of the main causes of hair shedding in women is childbirth. Since hair growth is a hormonally controlled process at its core, the hormonal changes that must occur during pregnancy also affect the hair follicles and growth cycles. Most shedding occurs after childbirth when hormonal levels begin to taper off.

Because birth control pills also regulate hormone levels in the body, stopping the use of birth control pills may trigger a bout of hair shedding months later. This shedding may continue as many as six months after the pills have been discontinued.

Another cause of spontaneous hair shedding in both men and women is the sudden onset of severe stress or illness accompanied by fever. Prescription medicines may exacerbate the shedding problem.

Various chemical salon treatments like relaxers, hair colors and perms can trigger shedding in some women.

Consult your physician if you notice that your hair is shedding much more than is typical for you.