Postpartum Hair Loss - Why It Happens and What Actually Helps
Nobody warned you about this part.
The clumps of hair in your hands when you shower. The hairline that seems to be retreating. The drain that clogs weekly. You are exhausted, emotional, and now watching your hair disappear.
Postpartum hair loss is shockingly common and shockingly under-discussed. Here is why it happens and what you can safely do about it.
Why Your Hair Is Falling Out
During pregnancy, elevated oestrogen extends the hair growth phase. Hairs that would normally shed stay put. Your hair looks thicker and fuller than ever.
After birth, oestrogen levels plummet. All those hairs that overstayed their welcome suddenly enter the shedding phase simultaneously. What would have been gradual normal shedding over nine months happens in a few dramatic weeks.
This is called telogen effluvium. It typically begins two to four months after delivery and can be truly alarming. Women report losing hair by the handful, visible scalp through their hair, and hairlines that look drastically different.
The good news is that postpartum hair loss is temporary. The less good news is that "temporary" can mean six to twelve months of distressing shedding.
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When Postpartum Hair Loss Is More Than Normal
Some shedding after pregnancy is universal. But factors can make it worse or more prolonged.
Iron deficiency is common after childbirth, especially with significant blood loss during delivery. Low iron worsens hair loss and prevents recovery.
Thyroid dysfunction can develop postpartum. Both underactive and overactive thyroid affect hair.
Nutritional depletion from pregnancy and breastfeeding. Your body prioritised the baby, potentially depleting your reserves.
Ongoing stress and sleep deprivation of new motherhood. Your body is under chronic strain.
If your hair loss seems excessive or is not resolving by twelve months postpartum, these factors should be investigated with blood tests.
What You Can Do About It
Optimise Your Nutrition
Your body needs resources to grow hair. Protein, iron, zinc, B vitamins, and omega-3 fatty acids all support hair growth.
Eating well feels impossible with a newborn, but it matters. Focus on protein at every meal, iron-rich foods, and staying hydrated.
Consider Targeted Supplements
Nutrafol offers a postpartum-appropriate formula that supports hair growth through multiple mechanisms. It addresses stress hormones, provides hair-specific nutrients, and supports recovery from the physical demands of pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Unlike random supplements, Nutrafol is clinically studied specifically for hair growth. Many new mothers find it helps accelerate recovery from postpartum shedding.
Check with your healthcare provider if breastfeeding, though Nutrafol's postpartum formula is designed with nursing mothers in mind.
Be Patient With Your Hair
Avoid harsh treatments, tight hairstyles, and excessive heat styling during recovery. Your hair is vulnerable. Gentle handling prevents additional damage.
The baby hairs that eventually regrow can be frustrating. They stick up, frizz, and do not behave. This is actually a good sign. Your hair is coming back.
PRP Therapy After Breastfeeding
For women whose hair does not fully recover, or who had pre-existing thinning worsened by pregnancy, PRP therapy can help.
We typically recommend waiting until after breastfeeding to begin PRP treatment. This ensures your hormones have stabilised and treatment can work optimally.
PRP stimulates follicles, extends the growth phase, and can help restore density that postpartum shedding reduced.
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Timeline for Recovery
Most women follow a predictable pattern.
Months 2-4 postpartum: Shedding begins, often dramatically.
Months 4-6: Peak shedding period. This is usually the worst of it.
Months 6-9: Shedding slows. Baby hairs begin appearing.
Months 9-12: Significant regrowth visible. Hair starts looking fuller.
12-18 months: Most women return close to pre-pregnancy hair density.
Some women recover faster. Some take longer. Individual variation is significant.
When to Seek Help
Consider a consultation if shedding continues past twelve months, you notice patchy loss rather than diffuse thinning, you feel unwell alongside hair loss, your hair has not shown any signs of recovery, or you had significant hair loss before pregnancy.
Blood tests can identify treatable causes. Treatment options exist for hair that is not recovering on its own.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is postpartum hair loss preventable? Not entirely, since it is hormonally driven. However, optimising nutrition and addressing deficiencies can reduce severity.
Will my hair ever be the same? Most women return to their baseline. Some find their hair texture or density permanently changed. Treatment can help if natural recovery is inadequate.
Can I use minoxidil while breastfeeding? Minoxidil is generally not recommended during breastfeeding. Wait until after weaning to consider this treatment.
Is it safe to colour my hair during postpartum shedding? Generally yes, but be gentle. Avoid harsh chemicals and consider less damaging options. The shedding is from the follicle, not hair damage, so colouring does not cause additional loss.
When can I start Nutrafol? Nutrafol's postpartum formula is designed for new mothers including those breastfeeding. Check with your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Your hair will come back. Support makes it happen faster.