Postpartum Hair Loss - Why It Happens and What New Mums Can Do

Experiencing postpartum hair loss? Learn why it happens after pregnancy, when it usually stops, and the best tips and treatments for new mums.

You’ve made it through pregnancy, birth, and those early newborn weeks - but suddenly, your hairbrush and shower drain are full of hair. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

Postpartum hair loss (also called postpartum alopecia) is a very common experience for new mums, affecting up to 50% of women after pregnancy. The good news? It’s usually temporary. But understanding why it happens, how long it lasts, and what you can do to support your hair and confidence can make all the difference.

Read More : Navigating the landscape of Postpartum

Why Does Postpartum Hair Loss Happen?

During pregnancy, higher levels of oestrogen and progesterone keep your hair in its growth (anagen) phase for longer. This is why many women notice thicker, shinier hair while expecting.

After birth, hormone levels drop suddenly. This causes:

• More hairs entering the shedding phase (telogen) all at once

• Hair loss that feels much heavier than usual

• Shedding most noticeable between 3–6 months postpartum

It isn’t usually true “hair loss” (like alopecia areata), but rather a catch-up shedding of hair that would normally have fallen gradually.

Read More : Postpartum & Beyond

When Does It Start and Stop?

• Starts: Often around 2–4 months postpartum.

• Peaks: Shedding is usually most noticeable around 4 months after birth.

• Improves: By your baby’s first birthday, most mums find hair growth and shedding return to normal.

  
  

If hair loss continues beyond 12 months, or you notice bald patches, it’s worth speaking to your GP to rule out other conditions (like thyroid imbalance, iron deficiency, or stress-related hair loss).

What Does Postpartum Hair Loss Look Like?

• Shedding large amounts when brushing, washing, or styling

• Thinner ponytail or more visible scalp

• Baby hairs regrowing along the hairline (often wispy or uneven)

• Thinning particularly at the temples or crown

  
  

It can be alarming, but it’s a normal, temporary part of postpartum recovery.

Tips for Coping With Postpartum Hair Loss

While you can’t stop postpartum shedding completely, there are plenty of ways to support healthy regrowth and make your hair look and feel fuller.

1. Nourish From the Inside

Your body needs nutrients to recover from pregnancy and support hair growth. Focus on:

• Protein – hair is made of keratin (a protein). Include lean meat, fish, eggs, beans, lentils.

• Iron – blood loss during birth can lower iron. Eat leafy greens, red meat, fortified cereals.

• Omega-3 fatty acids – salmon, walnuts, flaxseed to support scalp health.

• Biotin, zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins – all linked with healthy hair.

  
  

💡 Tip: If you’re breastfeeding, continue taking your prenatal or postnatal vitamins (but always check with your GP).

2. Gentle Hair Care

• Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle wet hair.

• Switch to a gentle, volumising shampoo rather than heavy, moisturising formulas.

• Avoid tight hairstyles (pony tails, buns) that pull on fragile strands.

• Limit heat styling (straighteners, curling wands).

  
  

3. Switch Up Your Style

• Try shorter layers or fringes to disguise thinning around the temples.

• A volumising blow dry or root-lift spray can give instant fullness.

• Headbands, clips, and scarves can stylishly cover thinner areas.

  
  

4. Manage Stress & Sleep (As Best You Can!)

Easier said than done as a new mum — but stress can worsen hair loss. Try:

• Rest when you can (yes, even a 20-min nap counts).

• Gentle movement like walking or postnatal yoga.

• Relaxation techniques: breathing, guided meditation, or journaling.

  
  

5. Scalp Massage

Massaging your scalp with fingertips or a soft brush for 5 minutes a day boosts blood flow to follicles and can encourage regrowth. Some mums like to use a few drops of rosemary oil (diluted in a carrier oil).

6. Professional Help if Needed

If hair loss feels severe, see your GP or a trichologist. They may check for:

• Iron deficiency anaemia

• Thyroid issues (postpartum thyroiditis can cause shedding)

• Other nutritional gaps

Treatment can be simple once the root cause is identified.

Myths About Postpartum Hair Loss

“It means you’re not eating well.”Not true — shedding is mainly hormonal. Diet supports recovery, but it doesn’t “cause” it.

“It won’t grow back.”In almost all cases, it does. New regrowth often looks like baby hairs at first.

“Breastfeeding makes hair loss worse.”There’s no evidence that breastfeeding directly causes more shedding. Hormones and genetics play a bigger role.

When to See a Doctor

Postpartum hair loss is usually harmless, but book a GP appointment if you notice:

• Hair loss lasting longer than 12 months postpartum

• Bald patches or circular areas of loss

• Other symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or mood swings (could signal thyroid issues)

  
  

Postpartum hair loss can feel like an extra challenge at a time when you’re already adjusting to new motherhood. But remember:

• It’s normal, temporary, and usually resolves by 12 months.

• Gentle care, good nutrition, and a little styling creativity can help you feel more confident.

• If you’re worried, always reach out for medical advice — you don’t have to navigate it alone.

  
  

🌸 Want more expert-led advice on the ups and downs of motherhood? Download the Carol App : your trusted friend in postpartum and beyond.