One of the unexpected challenges many new mums face after childbirth is postpartum hair loss.
I experienced it firsthand about a month postpartum. Nobody told me that becoming a mom meant trading my hair: my once full edges thinned out, and every comb-through left behind more hair than usual.
It was scary at first. I wondered if I was about to go bald until I realized what was happening. I was relieved to know it wasn’t permanent – even though that’s not the case for every mom.
Growing up, I learned that women tend to lose their hair after having children (my mom did) and the reason we were told was that a mom just has to share her hair with her children (especially females).
That sounded like a myth, right? So I never took it seriously until I had my baby and the reality of postpartum hair loss dawned on me.
However, it wasn’t a strange occurrence to me as I’ve equally seen a lot of women lose their hair shortly after having their babies. Just that we don’t always believe that some things will happen to us until they do.
I’ve seen some moms resort to barbing the whole hair and rocking low cuts while some others decided to start all over again. Yet, some moms keep their hair that way even though it’s no longer what it used to be.
In all these, two common questions I’ve heard over time about postpartum hair loss are: can it be prevented? Is it even treatable?
If you’re asking similar questions, you are not far from the answers.
In this post, we’ll explore why postpartum hair loss happens, how to prevent excessive shedding, and practical treatments that can help you regain your hair – and your confidence (if it matters that much to you)
Shall we dive in?
What is Postpartum Hair Loss?
Postpartum hair loss, also known as postpartum telogen effluvium, is a common condition where new mothers experience significant hair shedding in the months following childbirth.
Normally, we shed about 50 to 100 hairs a day, but during pregnancy, elevated estrogen levels prolong the growth phase of hair, making it look fuller and thicker.
I remember how my hair quality improved during pregnancy. I never knew that the pregnancy hormones were at work.
Then shortly after I had my baby and my hormone levels returned to normalcy, my hair began to fall out. This happened 1-2 months postpartum.
How alarming can that be, especially when it feels like handfuls of hair are breaking from your scalp? Thankfully, for most women, it’s temporary.
Most women see a noticeable improvement by their baby’s first birthday, and often much sooner.
As in my case, my hairline started growing back and my hair gradually recovered (though not yet fully) around my daughter’s first birthday.
Wondering what sense to make of all these? Let’s dive into science.
The Science behind Postpartum Hair Loss
For a proper understanding of postpartum hair loss, let’s take a look at what science has to say about it.
The natural hair growth cycle has three main phases:
- Anagen (Growth Phase) – Hair actively grows and can last for years.
- Catagen (Transition Phase) – A short phase where growth slows and the follicle shrinks.
- Telogen (Resting/Shedding Phase) – Hair rests before eventually falling out to make room for new growth.
During pregnancy, high estrogen levels extend the anagen phase, which means fewer hairs enter the shedding (telogen) phase. This is why many pregnant women notice their hair looking thicker and more vibrant.
However, after childbirth, estrogen levels drop sharply, and a large number of hairs that were in the extended growth phase suddenly shift into the telogen phase. This leads to excessive shedding, typically starting around 2 to 4 months postpartum.
While it can feel overwhelming, this shedding is a natural response to hormonal changes and not a sign of permanent hair loss or damage.
How Long Does Postpartum Hair Loss Last and How Does Hair Grow Back?
Postpartum hair loss typically begins around 2 to 4 months after childbirth, right when your hormone levels begin to settle back to pre-pregnancy levels. For most women, this phase of shedding peaks around the 3rd or 4th month postpartum and starts to slow down by the 6th month.
As I stated earlier, the good news is that postpartum hair loss is temporary. In most cases, hair growth returns to normal by the time your baby turns one year old.
However, the timeline can vary depending on individual health, hormonal balance, and underlying conditions like thyroid disorders or PCOS.
As for regrowth, your hair follicles aren’t damaged—they’re just in a resting phase. Once the telogen (shedding) phase ends, your hair enters the anagen (growth) phase again.
As in my case, you may notice short baby hairs growing around your hairline or crown as a sign that regrowth has started. At first, this new growth may seem fine or frizzy, but over time it will thicken and blend in with the rest of your hair.
The next common question is, can postpartum hair loss be prevented? Well…it’s a Yes and No thing.
How to Prevent Postpartum Hair Loss
While you can’t completely stop postpartum hair loss—because it’s a natural response to hormonal changes—there are several things you can do to minimize shedding, support healthy regrowth, and care for your scalp and strands during this transition.
Here are some of them:
1. Eat a Balanced, Nutrient-Rich Diet
Your hair needs the right building blocks to grow strong. Focus on foods rich in:
- Protein – eggs, legumes, lean meats
- Iron – spinach, red meat, lentils
- Zinc and Selenium – nuts, seeds, whole grains
- Vitamins A, C, D, E, and B-complex (especially biotin)
- Omega-3 fatty acids – found in fatty fish and flaxseeds
According to the American Pregnancy Association, unusual hair loss during pregnancy or after childbirth can sometimes be linked to vitamin or mineral deficiencies, underscoring the importance of proper nutrition for healthy hair.
2. Continue Prenatal or Postnatal Vitamins
Even after delivery, your body still needs support. Continuing your prenatal or postnatal vitamins can help fill any nutritional gaps, especially if you’re breastfeeding.
3. Be Gentle With Your Hair
Avoid tight hairstyles like braids or ponytails that pull on the hairline. Use a wide-tooth comb, and skip heat styling tools when possible. Choose sulfate-free, nourishing shampoos and conditioners to keep your hair and scalp healthy.
4. Manage Stress
Easier said than done, right? Being a new mom, you sure have a lot on your plate. I understand. I’ve been there too. As much as you can, prioritize self-care. Emotional or physical stress can contribute to your hair loss. Find ways to rest and recharge—whether it’s through sleep, prayer, journaling, light exercise, or simply asking for help.
5. Massage Your Scalp
Regular scalp massages with natural oils like coconut, castor, or rosemary oil can increase blood circulation and stimulate hair follicles. This not only feels relaxing but also encourages healthy hair growth.
6. Stay Hydrated
Hydration plays a big role in both skin and hair health. Aim to drink enough water daily—especially if you’re breastfeeding.
Remember, you may not be able to prevent hair loss entirely, but these steps can help reduce the severity and support faster, healthier regrowth.
Next, let’s talk about various treatments for postpartum hair loss.
Treatment Options for Postpartum Hair Loss
Postpartum hair loss usually resolves on its own, but if you’re looking for ways to support faster recovery or you’re experiencing more severe shedding, there are both natural remedies and medical treatments that can help.
1. Natural Remedies and At-Home Care
- Essential Oils: Oils like rosemary, peppermint, and lavender have been shown to stimulate hair growth when used consistently. Mix a few drops with a carrier oil (like coconut or jojoba) and massage into the scalp 2–3 times a week.
- Onion Juice: Though it sounds odd, onion juice has been found in some studies to support hair regrowth due to its high sulfur content. Apply it to the scalp, leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse.
- Aloe Vera: Aloe soothes the scalp and may help reduce inflammation that hinders hair growth. It can be used as a natural mask once or twice a week.
- DIY Hair Masks: Masks made from ingredients like eggs, yogurt, avocado, and honey can nourish your hair and reduce breakage.
2. Over-the-Counter Treatments
- Minoxidil (Rogaine): This FDA-approved topical treatment is commonly used to treat hair thinning. While it’s not specifically tested for postpartum use, some dermatologists may recommend it in severe cases. Note: Not recommended while breastfeeding unless advised by a doctor.
- Hair Growth Serums: Look for serums with ingredients like biotin, caffeine, keratin, and peptides that support follicle health.
- Biotin Supplements: While biotin deficiency is rare, some women notice improvements in hair thickness when they supplement it. Always consult your doctor before starting new supplements.
3. Professional Treatments
- PRP Therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma): This involves using your blood to stimulate scalp repair and hair growth. It’s often used for chronic hair loss and may be considered if hair loss persists well beyond the postpartum period.
- Laser Therapy: Low-level laser devices stimulate hair follicles and may be useful in supporting regrowth. It’s a non-invasive, safe option for some women.
4. Medical Check-Up
If your hair loss is extreme, doesn’t improve after 12 months, or is accompanied by other symptoms (fatigue, weight changes, irregular periods), it may be a sign of something deeper—like thyroid issues, iron deficiency, or PCOS. A blood test and proper diagnosis can lead to effective treatment.
When to See a Doctor
Postpartum hair loss is usually normal and temporary, but there are times when it may signal something more serious. You should consider seeing a doctor or dermatologist if you notice any of the following:
1. Hair Loss Lasts Beyond 12 Months
Most postpartum hair loss resolves within 6 to 12 months. If your shedding continues past your baby’s first birthday with no signs of slowing down, it’s time to get evaluated.
2. Bald Spots or Patches
Postpartum shedding usually diffuses—meaning it happens all over the scalp. If you notice patchy hair loss or bald spots, this could be a sign of alopecia areata, fungal infections, or other scalp conditions.
3. Other Unusual Symptoms
If your hair loss is accompanied by:
- Fatigue
- Weight gain or loss
- Depression or anxiety
- Irregular periods
- Cold intolerance It may point to thyroid dysfunction, iron deficiency, or hormonal imbalances like PCOS or postpartum thyroiditis.
4. Excessive Hair Loss After a Second or Third Pregnancy
While postpartum shedding is common after each pregnancy, repeated or worsening hair loss could mean your body needs additional support or a deeper medical assessment.
5. Family History of Hair Loss
If you have a family history of female-pattern baldness or other types of alopecia, it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider earlier for preventive care or treatment options.
A simple blood test can help rule out or confirm any underlying conditions. The earlier you seek help, the easier it is to manage and treat the root cause.
Wrapping Up
Postpartum hair loss can feel like one more unexpected challenge in an already overwhelming season. But the truth is that you are not alone, and this phase doesn’t last forever. Your body is adjusting, healing, and recalibrating after the incredible work of growing and birthing a baby.
Be kind to yourself, nourish your body, care for your scalp gently, and give your hair time to recover. And if the shedding feels too intense or lingers longer than expected, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Your well-being—physical, emotional, and spiritual—matters.
Remember, your beauty doesn’t begin or end with your hair. You are already doing an amazing job for being a mom. Cheers!
References
- American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD). Postpartum hair loss: What to expect and what you can do. www.aad.org
- Mayo Clinic. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). www.mayoclinic.org
- Cleveland Clinic. Hair loss in women: Causes and treatment. www.clevelandclinic.org
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). FAQs on postpartum recovery. www.acog.org
