What Causes Postpartum Hair Loss and How to Manage It

Hair loss after giving birth to a baby is common and manageable. This loss, also known as telogen effluvium, happens because hormone levels, especially estrogen, change after childbirth. This usually peaks around 3 to 5 months after delivery. Over 90% of women experience postpartum hair loss.

Sudden and heavy hair fall after pregnancy might be scary, but the good news is that it is temporary.

This blog explains the reasons behind this hair loss, when it will stop, and how you can reduce and manage it naturally.

Why Does Postpartum Hair Loss Happen?

It’s important to understand the reason behind postpartum hair loss. Here’s what happens during pregnancy and after you give birth:

• During pregnancy, high estrogen levels keep hair in the "growth" (anagen) phase for much longer, which means there’s very little hair loss. This is why many women notice their hair feels fuller and thicker.

• After childbirth, there is a sudden drop in estrogen, which leads to the hair follicles shifting from the active growth (anagen) phase into the resting (telogen) phase immediately. This is why many women notice visible hair loss a few months after giving birth.

While a drop in estrogen causes postpartum hair loss, it’s not the only reason. Other factors that can contribute are:

• Poor sleep 

• Emotional and physical stress after birth

• Nutritional deficiencies, especially in iron, vitamin B12, and protein

• Blood loss during delivery or postpartum fatigue

• Breastfeeding does not directly cause hair loss, but it may delay the time your body needs to normalize hormone levels

When Does It Start and How Long Does It Last?

Thinking about when does postpartum hair loss start? Remember, it doesn’t happen immediately. You might notice hair fall three months after giving birth to a child, and the hair loss peaks around the fourth month.

And how long does postpartum hair loss last? It eventually slows down or ends in about 6-12 months after giving birth. This is when most women notice that their hair feels full and thick, and they start to see new growth as their hormones begin to stabilize. Sometimes, breastfeeding or C-section recovery might affect these timelines.

However, if you notice hair fall even after 12 months, you should check with a doctor as it could be a sign of issues like thyroid, iron deficiency, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

How to Stop Postpartum Hair Loss Naturally

Another question moms have is, ‘How to stop postpartum hair loss?’ There is no quick fix; you need to eat well and take care of your hair.

Here is how you can ensure hair health:

1. Diet:

• Leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and lentils are rich in vitamins and minerals, which are important for hair growth.

• An iron deficiency is a common cause of hair loss after childbirth. Eat iron-rich food, such as red meat, fortified cereals, and spinach.

• Biotin is essential for healthy hair and is found in egg yolks and whole grains.

• Hair is made up of keratin, which is a type of protein, so it's important to eat a protein-rich diet. Good sources of protein include eggs, tofu, paneer, fish, and dairy products like Greek yogurt. 

• Zinc, found in shellfish, seeds, and chickpeas, is essential for hair follicle growth. 

2. Gentle Hair Habits:

• Don’t use heat styling tools and avoid tight hairstyles that pull on the roots.

• Use satin pillowcases and soft hair ties.

• Avoid brushing wet hair, as it is the weakest when it's wet. 

3. Scalp Care:

• Massage your hair at least twice a week with oils like brahmi, coconut, or amla for better circulation and healthy hair. 

• Oils like rosemary and bhringraj help reduce hair fall and promote new hair growth.

4. Lifestyle Changes:

• Sleep is important; prioritize your sleep schedule as much as you can.

• Stress can worsen hair loss. Try deep breathing exercises and meditation to manage stress.

• Stay hydrated by drinking a minimum of 2-3 liters of water every day.

Postpartum Hair Routine: Daily + Weekly

A simple and easy-to-follow routine is important, especially after you have given birth to a child. Here’s a sample routine you can follow for postpartum hair loss treatment:

Vitamins for Postpartum Hair Loss

Giving birth impacts your body physically, which is why postpartum is considered a nutrient-demanding phase. It’s important to consume nutrient-rich food and vitamins for postpartum hair loss. 

Here are some nutrients important for hair growth:

• Biotin is important for keratin production and makes hair healthy and strong. 

• Zinc helps promote healthy follicles and is important for new hair.

• Iron carries oxygen to the follicles and is necessary for hair growth. 

• Vitamin C  helps your body absorb and process iron. If you have an iron deficiency due to pregnancy, Vitamin C supplements can be helpful.

• Vitamin D works at a cellular level and is essential for follicle growth.

• Omega-3s help improve hair thickness and support new hair growth.

Prioritize food rich in these nutrients and vitamins, and take additional supplements only if your doctor recommends them.

Breastfeeding and Hair Loss: What You Should Know

It is a common myth that breastfeeding causes hair loss. The truth is that postpartum hair loss and breastfeeding are not directly related. Breastfeeding can delay the time needed for your hormones to stabilize, which can extend the shedding phase of your hair cycle. Thus, women who breastfeed might notice longer hair shedding than women who don’t.

If you are breastfeeding, it's important:

• To eat nutrient-rich foods.

• Drink at least 2-3 liters of water every day.

• Manage stress and prioritize rest.

When to Be Concerned

Now that you know how long postpartum hair fall may last, it's also important to understand that not all hair fall is normal. You might need to see a doctor and get postpartum hair loss treatment if:

• Your hair loss continues beyond 12 months.

• You start to notice bald spots.

• You have an itchy, sensitive scalp and pain.

• You feel tired, dizzy, or foggy.

Some of these symptoms could be related to other issues, like: 

• Thyroid disorders

• Iron deficiency anemia

• PCOS or hormonal imbalance

If you notice anything out of the normal, keep a track of your symptoms and consult with a doctor.

FAQs

1. How much hair fall is normal after delivery?

You can lose more than 100 hairs daily after giving birth. Hair fall usually peaks around three months after giving birth.

2. Should I change my shampoo?

Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo. Avoid shampoos with harsh formulas. Also, consult a dermatologist if you experience excessive hair loss.

3. Is oiling daily safe while breastfeeding?

Use natural oils and do a patch test to rule out allergic reactions. Oil your hair 2-3 times a week and wash it well. Avoid certain oils and check with your doctor to see that the products you are using are safe.

4. Does short hair reduce postpartum shedding?

No, cutting hair does not prevent hair fall after delivery. However, having short hair might give you a fuller look and be easy to manage.

5. Can postpartum hair loss be permanent?

Postpartum hair loss is mostly temporary and caused by hormonal changes. It will last for 6 to 12 months, and you will regain pre-pregnancy fullness.

Conclusion

Your hair, like your body, is also recovering after childbirth. Postpartum hair loss is common and temporary, so allow your body to heal. Eat nutrient-rich foods, manage stress, and prioritize your sleep and rest.

While self-care is important, you may also require professional help. Traya’s science-based approach, which includes Ayurveda, Nutrition, and Dermatology, offers a personalized treatment plan to help address the root causes of hair loss and promote hair health.

Take Traya’s hair test today and find a curated plan specific to your requirements.