FAQ: Postpartum Hair Loss

Many changes happen to your body during pregnancy and after giving birth, and postpartum hair loss is one of the most common. Shifting hormone levels during and after pregnancy are often the reason behind hair thinning postpartum.

If you notice more hair shedding, know you're not alone. Is hair loss after pregnancy normal? Yes—and in most cases, it’s temporary. Pregnancy and childbirth take a toll on your body, and recovery can take time. Fortunately, your hair will likely return to its usual state before long. Read on to learn what causes postpartum hair loss, how long it typically lasts, and steps you can take to help manage it.

What Is Postpartum Hair Loss?

Many individuals experience hair loss a few months after giving birth, often noticing extra shedding around the hairline or across the scalp. This shedding, known as postpartum hair loss, can feel alarming, but it’s a normal part of the recovery process.

The hormonal shifts that occur during pregnancy and postpartum can temporarily disrupt your hair’s growth cycle. As your hormones gradually return to pre-pregnancy levels, your hair will likely regrow and return to its usual fullness.

Is Postpartum Hair Loss Common?

Yes, postpartum hair loss is a common experience for many new parents. In fact, shedding hair in the months following childbirth is typical and part of the body’s natural recovery process. 

This temporary shedding usually starts a few months after delivery and tends to resolve on its own over time. While it can feel concerning to see more hair falling out than usual, losing hair after pregnancy is a natural phase, and your hair will likely return to its usual fullness.

What Causes Postpartum Hair Loss?

Pregnancy hormones can have a significant impact on your body, including changes to your hair. Many people notice their hair becomes thicker during pregnancy. 

So, why does postpartum hair loss happen? After giving birth, placental estrogen levels drop, causing the hair that stayed put during pregnancy to begin shedding. This process, often referred to as postpartum hair loss, normally occurs two to four months after delivery.

However, after you give birth (or sometimes after you stop breastfeeding), you may find that all that hair you didn’t lose during your pregnancy now starts to come loose and shed. This is why you may experience postpartum hair loss in the months after giving birth.

By the way, these same pregnancy hormones may also mean that you find your hair is oilier or drier than usual, or even a slightly different color both during pregnancy and in the period afterward.

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When Does Postpartum Hair Loss Start?

For most people, postpartum hair loss begins around two to four months after giving birth. This is typically the point when hormone levels start to normalize, triggering the hair shedding that was delayed during pregnancy. 

How Long Does Postpartum Hair Loss Last?

It can differ from person to person, but postpartum hair loss usually lasts about three to six months. By the time you reach 12 months postpartum, your hair growth should largely return to its pre-pregnancy state. 

How to Identify Postpartum Hair Loss?

Postpartum hair loss can present in a few noticeable ways. Many people first observe hair thinning after childbirth. This type of shedding may become more apparent when brushing or washing your hair.

More commonly, you might notice postpartum hair breakage or thinning patches rather than significant loss of hair in one spot.

If you’re concerned about postpartum hair loss bald spots or significant hair thinning post-pregnancy, consult your healthcare provider to rule out other causes and discuss potential treatments 

How to Deal with Postpartum Hair Loss?

If the hair loss you’re experiencing is caused by hormonal changes associated with pregnancy and childbirth, the hair loss may simply stop on its own without any treatment at all. 

Still, here are some ways on how to help postpartum hair loss:

• Be gentle with your hair. Use a wide-tooth comb and avoid tight hairstyles or heat styling to minimize breakage.

• Eat a nutrient-rich diet. Focus on foods high in biotin, zinc, and iron, or ask your healthcare provider about supplements

• Choose strengthening products. Volumizing shampoos and conditioners can help reduce breakage and improve the appearance of thicker hair.

• Try a different hairstyle. Loose, natural styles reduce stress on your hair and simplify your routine. Shorter cuts can make hair appear fuller and are easier to manage with a new baby.

How to Prevent Postpartum Hair Loss?

While there’s no way to fully prevent postpartum hair loss, the steps mentioned in the previous section—like being gentle with your hair, maintaining a healthy diet, and avoiding tight hairstyles—can help minimize breakage and support overall hair health.

Knowing that hair loss after pregnancy is normal can also help you feel more prepared if it happens.

Does Postpartum Hair Loss Grow Back?

Yes, postpartum hair loss regrowth is normal, and temporary, and new hair normally begins to grow as soon as the shedding phase ends. While it may take several months, your hair’s growth cycle should return to normal within a year.

In some cases, hair may feel slightly thinner than before, but for the majority, hair growth post-pregnancy restores fullness over time.

When to Visit Your Healthcare Provider

If your postpartum hair loss feels excessive or lasts longer than six months, it may be worth consulting your healthcare provider.

In some cases, conditions like an underactive thyroid, which can develop during or after pregnancy, may contribute to prolonged or extreme hair loss. Your provider can assess the situation and recommend treatment if needed.

The Bottom Line

Pregnancy and the postpartum period bring plenty of changes—some exciting, others less so. If you’re dealing with postpartum hair loss, know that it’s temporary, and your hair will likely return to its normal state within a few months.

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_{How We Wrote This Article The information in this article is based on expert advice found in trusted medical and government sources, such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. You can find a full list of sources used for this article below. The content on this page should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult medical professionals for full diagnosis and treatment.}