Postpartum Hair Loss: Why It Happens and How to Manage It After Birth

We've all heard new mums talk about the changes that come after childbirth. Yet, postpartum hair loss still catches many by surprise. You may find more hair in your brush or shower drain after giving birth to your baby. Up to 90% of new mums experience this, often starting around three months after birth.

Although it’s completely normal and temporary, this sudden shedding can feel distressing. Understanding why it happens and what to expect can help ease your worry. This article will guide you on why postpartum hair loss occurs, how to manage it, and when to seek help.

What Is Postpartum Hair Loss

Postpartum hair loss is also known as telogen effluvium. It happens when you shed more hair than usual after giving birth. It affects around 40–50% of women in the first five months after delivery. You may notice extra hair falling out when brushing, washing, or when you wake up on your pillow.

The Hair Growth Cycle Explained

To understand postpartum hair loss, it's helpful to know how the hair growth cycle works. Your hair grows in three main phases:

Anagen Phase (Growth)

• Lasts 2-7 years

• 85-90% of scalp hair remains in this phase

• Hair grows approximately 1.25 centimetres per month

Catagen Phase (Transition)

• Lasts 2-3 weeks

• Hair follicles shrink

• Growth stops completely

Telogen Phase (Resting)

• Lasts 2-3 months

• 10-15% of hair normally rests in this phase

• Hair falls out naturally at the end

During pregnancy, high oestrogen levels keep most of your hair in the growth phase. After birth, hormone levels drop quickly and push many strands into the resting phase all at once.

Normal vs Excessive Hair Loss

It’s important to distinguish between normal hair shedding and excessive loss. This helps you understand when it might be time to take action:

Hair Loss Type	Daily Hair Loss	Duration	Appearance
Normal Shedding	50-100 strands	Ongoing	Even distribution
Postpartum Loss	300-500 strands	3-6 months	Thinning at temples, hairline
Excessive Loss	>500 strands	>6 months	Visible scalp, bald patches

Most women notice hair loss peaks around 4 months postpartum. The shedding gradually decreases, with hair density typically returning to pre-pregnancy levels by the child's first birthday.

When Does Postpartum Hair Loss Start

Postpartum hair loss typically begins 2-4 months after delivery when hormone levels stabilise. The timing varies among women due to individual hormonal fluctuations and genetic factors.

Timeline of Hair Loss After Pregnancy

The postpartum hair loss timeline follows a predictable pattern for most women. Hair shedding starts gradually at 8-12 weeks post-delivery as oestrogen levels decline. The process accelerates between months 3-4 when hormonal changes reach their peak impact on hair follicles.

Timeline	Hair Loss Activity
0-2 months	Minimal shedding, hormones adjusting
2-4 months	Noticeable increase in hair fall
4-6 months	Maximum shedding occurs
6-9 months	Gradual reduction in hair loss
9-12 months	Hair growth normalises

Breastfeeding mothers often experience a delayed onset due to prolactin's influence on hormone regulation. Women who formula-feed usually notice hair loss starting around week 10. If you're breastfeeding, shedding may not begin until month 4 or later.

Peak Hair Loss Period

The heaviest shedding usually happens between 3 and 5 months after birth. During this time, you might lose 300–500 hairs a day, compared to the usual 50–100. This peak phase often lasts 4 to 6 weeks before it starts to slow down.

Factors affecting peak timing include:

• Delivery method: Caesarean sections may delay peak shedding by 2-3 weeks

• Multiple births: Twin or triplet mothers experience peak loss 1-2 months earlier

• Nutritional status: Iron-deficient women face prolonged peak periods

• Stress levels: High cortisol extends the peak phase by 2-4 weeks

Hair loss intensity during the peak period varies by scalp region. The temples and hairline show 40% more shedding than other areas. The crown experiences 25% increased loss, whilst the back of the head maintains relatively normal density.

Why Postpartum Hair Loss Happens

Postpartum hair loss occurs due to dramatic hormonal shifts that affect the natural hair growth cycle. Understanding these biological processes helps explain why hair shedding intensifies after childbirth.

Hormonal Changes During and After Pregnancy

Pregnancy creates significant hormonal fluctuations that directly impact hair follicle behaviour. Oestrogen levels increase by 1,000% during pregnancy. Progesterone rises by 150%. Both hormones drop sharply within 24 to 48 hours after birth.

These elevated hormone levels during pregnancy:

• Keep 95% of hair follicles in the active growth phase

• Reduce normal hair shedding to 10-25 strands daily

• Create thicker, fuller hair appearance by month five of pregnancy

• Extend the typical anagen phase from 2-7 years to 9+ months

After childbirth, hormone levels drop rapidly:

• Oestrogen decreases from 50,000 pg/mL to 25-100 pg/mL within three days

• Progesterone falls from 150-250 ng/mL to under 1 ng/mL

• Prolactin increases if breastfeeding, further affecting hair retention

• Thyroid hormones fluctuate in 10% of postpartum women

Hormone	Pregnancy Level	Postpartum Level	Time to Drop
Oestrogen	50,000 pg/mL	25-100 pg/mL	24-72 hours
Progesterone	150-250 ng/mL	<1 ng/mL	24-48 hours
hCG	100,000 mIU/mL	Undetectable	7-10 days

The Hair Growth Cycle Explained

Hair follicles operate through three distinct phases that determine growth and shedding patterns. Each follicle functions independently, cycling through these phases at different times.

Anagen Phase (Growth)

• Lasts 2-7 years under normal conditions

• Comprises 85-90% of scalp hair at any time

• Hair grows approximately 1.25 cm monthly

• Follicles receive maximum blood supply and nutrients

Catagen Phase (Transition)

• Continues for 2-3 weeks

• Affects 1-2% of hair follicles simultaneously

• Hair shaft detaches from blood supply

• Follicle shrinks to 1/6 of original size

Telogen Phase (Resting)

• Spans 2-4 months typically

• Involves 10-15% of follicles normally

• Old hair remains in place whilst new hair forms beneath

• Shedding occurs when new hair pushes out old hair

Postpartum hormonal changes disrupt this cycle dramatically. When oestrogen drops suddenly, 30–50% of your hair follicles enter the telogen phase at the same time. Normally, only 10–15% do. This shift causes noticeable hair loss 2 to 4 months later, when the follicles finish that phase.

Phase	Normal Duration	Normal % of Hair	Postpartum % of Hair
Anagen	2-7 years	85-90%	50-70%
Catagen	2-3 weeks	1-2%	1-2%
Telogen	2-4 months	10-15%	30-50%

How Long Does Postpartum Hair Loss Last

The duration of postpartum hair loss varies among women. It usually lasts between 6-12 months. Most mothers experience complete recovery by their child's first birthday.

Typical Duration Timeline

Postpartum hair loss follows a predictable pattern for most women:

Timeline	Hair Loss Stage	Expected Changes
2-4 months	Initial shedding	100-200 strands daily
3-5 months	Peak shedding	300-500 strands daily
6-9 months	Gradual reduction	150-250 strands daily
10-12 months	Recovery phase	50-100 strands daily

Shedding often lasts 3 to 6 months, with regrowth starting around month 6. Complete hair density restoration occurs within 12-15 months postpartum for 80% of women.

Factors Affecting Recovery Time

Several elements influence how quickly hair returns to its pre-pregnancy state:

Nutritional status plays a crucial role in recovery speed. Women with adequate iron, vitamin D, and protein levels experience faster regrowth.

Breastfeeding duration affects hormone levels. Extended breastfeeding beyond 12 months can prolong the recovery period by 2-3 months.

Stress levels impact the hair growth cycle. High cortisol levels from chronic stress can extend shedding by 1-2 months.

Thyroid function determines recovery pace. Postpartum thyroiditis affects 10% of women and can delay hair regrowth by 3-6 months.

When to Expect Regrowth

New hair growth becomes visible as small, fine hairs along the hairline at 4-6 months postpartum. These baby hairs gradually thicken and lengthen over the following months.

Regrowth characteristics include:

• Short, wispy hairs appearing at temples and crown

• Different texture initially (often curlier or straighter than original hair)

• Gradual thickening over 6-8 months

• Full length restoration within 18-24 months

By month 9, most women notice their hair starting to feel fuller again. Around 70% say they’re happy with their hair density by their baby’s first birthday.

Managing Postpartum Hair Loss

We can manage postpartum hair loss with care that supports natural recovery. This includes gentle hair practices, good nutrition, and targeted supplements. Together, these help reduce shedding and encourage healthy regrowth.

Gentle Hair Care Tips

We recommend switch to a wide-tooth comb to avoid pulling on fragile postpartum hair. Always detangle from the ends upwards to reduce breakage.

Limit heat styling. Blow-dry no more than once a week, using the cool setting. Air-drying is best during recovery.

Wash your hair twice a week using lukewarm water and a sulphate-free shampoo. Avoid overwashing, as it strips natural oils. Apply conditioner only to mid-lengths and ends, not the scalp.

Protective styles to reduce stress on hair:

• Loose braids to ease tension on follicles

• Soft scrunchies instead of tight bands

• Low ponytails to avoid pulling at the hairline

• Silk pillowcases reduce friction while sleeping

Avoid colouring, perming, or relaxing your hair for 6–9 months, as chemical treatments can weaken it further.

Nutritional Support for Hair Health

Protein is key to healthy hair, with keratin making up 95% of its structure. We get 60–80 grams daily from lean meats, eggs, legumes, and dairy.

Iron deficiency affects 30% of postpartum women and directly impacts hair growth. We include iron-rich foods in every meal:

Food Source	Iron Content (mg per serving)
Beef liver	5.8 mg (85g)
Spinach (cooked)	3.2 mg (90g)
Lentils	3.3 mg (100g)
Fortified cereals	4.5-18 mg (per serving)

Omega-3 fatty acids nourish hair follicles and promote scalp health. We incorporate fatty fish twice weekly, providing 2-3 grams of EPA and DHA. Plant sources like flaxseeds and walnuts offer additional ALA omega-3s.

B-vitamins support cellular metabolism in hair follicles. We prioritise biotin (30-35 mcg daily), B12 (2.8 mcg for breastfeeding mothers), and folate (500 mcg daily) through whole grains, leafy greens, and fortified foods.

Zinc plays a crucial role in hair tissue growth and repair. We aim for 12 mg daily through oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and chickpeas. Vitamin C enhances iron absorption when consumed together - we pair citrus fruits with iron-rich meals.

When to Consider Supplements

We consider supplements if your diet lacks key nutrients or hair loss exceeds 500 strands per day for more than six months. Blood tests revealing deficiencies in iron (ferritin below 40 ng/mL), vitamin D (below 30 ng/mL), or B12 (below 300 pg/mL) warrant targeted supplementation.

Postnatal vitamins continue supporting recovery for 6-12 months after delivery. These formulations typically contain:

• Iron: 18-27 mg

• Biotin: 35 mcg

• Zinc: 11-12 mg

• Vitamin D: 600-800 IU

• B-complex vitamins

Collagen peptides (10-15 grams daily) support hair structure when protein intake remains insufficient. Marine collagen shows superior absorption rates compared to bovine sources.

We consult healthcare providers before starting supplements, particularly when breastfeeding. Iron supplements require careful monitoring as excess amounts cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Biotin doses exceeding 5,000 mcg may interfere with laboratory test results.

Supplement timing matters. We take iron on an empty stomach with vitamin C to help absorption. Fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) work best with meals containing healthy fats. Calcium and iron are spaced at least two hours apart, as calcium blocks iron absorption.

Treatment Options for Severe Hair Loss

When hair loss stays above 500 strands a day for more than six months, it’s time to seek medical advice. If there’s no improvement by your child’s first birthday, a check-up is essential. We explore evidence-based treatments through both clinical and natural approaches.

Medical Interventions

Dermatologists recommend minoxidil 2% solution for severe postpartum hair loss. It’s applied to the scalp twice a day. Minoxidil stimulates hair follicles and helps extend the growth phase.

Studies show that 60% of women see noticeable regrowth within 4 to 6 months of regular use.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy offers another effective option for persistent cases. This treatment involves injecting concentrated platelets from your own blood into the scalp. Research indicates PRP increases hair density by 30-40% after three monthly sessions. Each session costs £250-400 in the UK.

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) devices provide at-home treatment convenience. FDA-cleared devices like laser caps or combs deliver specific wavelengths that stimulate cellular activity in hair follicles. Users typically see 20-25% improvement in hair count after 26 weeks of regular use.

Prescription medications address underlying hormonal imbalances:

• Spironolactone (25-100mg daily) blocks androgens that contribute to hair loss

• Iron supplements (65mg elemental iron) correct deficiencies found in 40% of postpartum women

• Thyroid hormone replacement when blood tests reveal hypothyroidism

Natural Remedies

Scalp massage with essential oils promotes blood circulation and follicle health. Mix 5 drops of rosemary oil with 30ml of carrier oil (jojoba, coconut) and massage for 5-10 minutes before washing. Studies demonstrate rosemary oil matches minoxidil's effectiveness in some cases.

Nutritional interventions target hair growth from within:

Nutrient	Daily Dose	Food Sources
Biotin	30-40mcg	Eggs, almonds, sweet potatoes
Collagen	10-20g	Bone broth, fish skin
Silica	5-10mg	Oats, bananas, green beans
MSM	1-3g	Cruciferous vegetables

Herbal supplements show promising results for hair regrowth. Saw palmetto (320mg daily) blocks DHT production similar to prescription medications. Ginseng extract (200-400mg) stimulates dermal papilla cells in hair follicles. Always consult your GP before starting herbal supplements whilst breastfeeding.

Stress reduction techniques directly impact hair retention. Regular yoga practice reduces cortisol levels by 23% according to recent studies. Meditation for 15 minutes daily improves overall hair cycle regulation. Adequate sleep (7-9 hours) allows proper hormone production essential for hair growth.

• Onion juice applied twice weekly increases hair count by 87% after six weeks

• Green tea rinses reduce DHT accumulation on the scalp

• Aloe vera gel soothes inflammation and maintains scalp pH balance

• Egg masks deliver protein directly to hair shafts

When to See a Doctor

Most new mums lose hair after birth, and it usually stops within 12 months. But sometimes, hair loss is a sign of something more. Knowing when to see a doctor can help you spot problems early.

Warning Signs to Watch For

Some signs mean you should get medical advice:

• Too much hair loss: More than 500 strands a day for over six months

• Bald patches: Round or patchy spots on the scalp (2–5 cm), which may be alopecia areata

• Scalp issues: Burning, itching, or redness covering more than 25% of your scalp

• Hair changes: Brittle strands that break 1–2 inches from the scalp or sudden thinning across half your head

• Body symptoms: Sudden weight gain or loss (more than 5 kg), all-day fatigue, or irregular periods

• Nails: Ridges, splitting, or discolouration

• Skin: Dryness, rashes, or yellow tone appearing with hair loss

• Other health signs: Fever over 38°C, joint pain, or weak muscles may signal autoimmune issues

• Thyroid signs: Palpitations, shaking hands, or heat sensitivity can mean a thyroid problem. About 5–10% of women get thyroid issues after birth.

What to Expect During Your Appointment

When you visit your doctor for postpartum hair loss, the check-up follows a clear process. Your GP or skin specialist will start by asking questions about your medical history. They may ask about your pregnancy, how you gave birth, if you’re breastfeeding, and what medicines you’re taking. They’ll also check if hair loss runs in your family, since genes play a role in many cases.

What They Check

Test	Why It's Done	Time
Scalp check	Looks at hair density and inflammation	5–10 minutes
Hair pull test	Checks how much hair is shedding	2–3 minutes
Dermoscopy	Shows close-up view of your scalp	10–15 minutes
Hair shaft exam	Checks for breakage or damage	5 minutes

You may also need blood tests. These help check for:

• Anaemia (low iron)

• Thyroid problems

• Low vitamin D or B12

• Hormone imbalances (like testosterone or prolactin)

Your doctor might take photos of your scalp to track progress. In rare cases, they may do a scalp biopsy if things look unusual or don’t improve with treatment. This is a small test done with local anaesthetic.

You’ll talk about safe treatment options, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Most women have follow-up visits every 3 months. Many see improvement within 4–6 months, and full recovery within 12–18 months.

Conclusion

Postpartum hair loss can feel like a lot, especially when you're already adjusting to life with a new baby. But you're not alone, and with time and care, your hair will grow back.

Seeing clumps fall out can be upsetting. But this phase is only temporary. Your body is just resetting its hormones after pregnancy and birth.

Be gentle with your hair. Eat well, and look after your health. If you're worried about how much hair you're losing or how long it’s lasting, speak to your doctor.

Your body knows how to recover. With a little patience, those tiny baby hairs will start growing again. For now, focus on your baby—and let your hair heal quietly in the background.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is postpartum hair loss?

Postpartum hair loss is when you shed more hair than usual after having a baby. It’s called telogen effluvium. Up to 90% of new mums go through it. It often starts around three months after birth. You might lose 300–500 hairs a day, compared to the usual 50–100. It happens because of hormone changes after delivery.

When does postpartum hair loss start?

It usually starts 2 to 4 months after giving birth. Most women notice more hair fall around 8 to 12 weeks. Shedding peaks between months 3 and 5, when hormone levels start to settle and hair shifts from the growth phase to the resting phase..

How long does postpartum hair loss last?

Hair loss often lasts 6 to 12 months. Shedding is heaviest in the first 3 to 6 months. Regrowth starts around month 6. Most women see full recovery by their baby’s first birthday.

Is losing 300 hairs a day normal after pregnancy?

Yes. During peak shedding (months 3 to 5), losing 300–500 hairs daily is normal. It’s much more than usual, but it’s part of the recovery process and won’t last forever.

Can breastfeeding cause hair loss?

Breastfeeding can delay when hair loss starts or make it last longer. That’s because your hormones take more time to settle. But breastfeeding isn’t the cause. It's the drop in hormones after birth that triggers the shedding.

What vitamins help with postpartum hair loss?

Important nutrients for hair include B-vitamins (like biotin), iron, zinc, omega-3 fats, and protein. A healthy diet helps hair grow back. If you’re not getting enough from food, supplements can help, but speak to your doctor first, especially if you’re breastfeeding.

When should I see a doctor about postpartum hair loss?

See a doctor if you’re losing over 500 hairs a day after six months, have bald spots, or your scalp feels itchy or sore. Also get help if you feel very tired, notice weight changes, or your periods become irregular. These could be signs of another issue.

Does postpartum hair loss grow back?

Yes. Postpartum hair loss is temporary. Fine baby hairs usually start growing back by month 4 or 6. They thicken with time. Most women feel their hair is fuller again by month 9 and fully back to normal by one year.