You're Not Alone:
Up to 50% of women experience noticeable hair loss after pregnancy. It's completely normal and almost always temporary.
Concerned About Your Hair Loss?
While postpartum shedding is normal, our assessment can help determine if other factors might be contributing to your hair loss.
Take Free AssessmentWhy Does Hair Fall Out After Pregnancy?
Postpartum hair loss is a form of telogen effluvium triggered by hormonal changes:
During Pregnancy
- High estrogen levels keep hair in the growth phase longer
- You shed less hair than normal (50-100 daily down to almost none)
- Hair often looks thicker and fuller
- You accumulate hair that would normally have been shed
After Delivery
- Estrogen levels drop dramatically
- All the "extra" hair enters the resting (telogen) phase
- 2-4 months later, this hair sheds
- It can feel like you're losing hair in clumps
Postpartum Hair Loss Timeline
Months 0-2 Postpartum
Hair still looks normal or good. Shedding hasn't started yet. Enjoy this phase!
Months 2-4 Postpartum
Shedding begins. You may notice more hair in your brush, shower drain, and on your pillow.
Months 4-6 Postpartum
Peak shedding period. Hair loss may be dramatic and worrying. This is the hardest phase.
Months 6-9 Postpartum
Shedding starts to slow. You may see new baby hairs growing in along your hairline.
Months 9-12 Postpartum
Hair gradually returns to normal. New growth fills in. You're almost there!
Month 12+ Postpartum
Hair usually back to pre-pregnancy state. New hair catching up in length.
What's Normal vs. What's Not
Normal Postpartum Shedding:
- Starts 2-4 months after delivery
- Affects the entire scalp (diffuse)
- Gradual improvement after 6-9 months
- No bald patches
- Hairline preserved
See a Doctor If:
- Hair loss started before 2 months postpartum
- You have patchy or circular bald spots
- Hair loss continues past 12 months
- You have other symptoms (fatigue, weight changes, cold intolerance)
- Hair loss is severe enough to cause visible scalp
Tips for Managing Postpartum Hair Loss
Hair Care Tips
- Be gentle—use a wide-tooth comb
- Avoid tight hairstyles
- Skip heat styling when possible
- Use volumizing products
- Consider a shorter haircut for easier management
Nutrition Support
- Continue prenatal vitamins
- Ensure adequate protein intake
- Check iron levels (especially if you had significant blood loss)
- Stay hydrated (especially if breastfeeding)
What to Avoid
- Don't start minoxidil while breastfeeding
- Avoid crash diets
- Don't panic—stress can worsen shedding
- Skip treatments not approved for nursing mothers
Is It More Than Postpartum Shedding?
If your hair loss seems excessive or isn't improving, our assessment can help identify if other factors might be involved.
Get AssessmentOther Postpartum Factors
Postpartum hair loss can be compounded by:
- Thyroid changes: Postpartum thyroiditis is common
- Iron deficiency: From blood loss during delivery
- Sleep deprivation: Can worsen shedding
- Stress: New parent stress adds to the load
- Breastfeeding: Continued hormonal changes
When Hair Loss Reveals Other Issues
Sometimes postpartum shedding unmasks underlying female pattern hair loss. Signs include:
- Hair doesn't fully recover after 12 months
- Progressive widening of the part
- Family history of hair loss
- Previous pregnancies with incomplete recovery
If this describes you, learn about treatment options available once you're done breastfeeding.
Conclusion
Postpartum hair loss is one of the most common—and most temporary—forms of hair loss. While it can be distressing to see clumps of hair falling out, remember that this is your body returning to its pre-pregnancy state.
For most women, hair returns to normal within a year. Be patient, be gentle with your hair, and nourish your body. If you're concerned about the extent or duration of your shedding, don't hesitate to consult with your healthcare provider.