Postpartum Hair Loss: Why It Happens (and How to Prepare During Pregnancy)
Becoming a mom comes with a lot of changes. Some are expected, others can catch you off guard.
One of those is hair shedding a few months after giving birth.
If you’ve heard about postpartum hair loss or are starting to notice more strands than usual, you’re not alone. It’s a very common experience, and it helps to understand what’s actually happening.
Why does postpartum hair loss happen?
During pregnancy, your body produces higher levels of estrogen.
This hormone keeps your hair in its growth phase longer than usual. That is why many women notice thicker, fuller hair while they are pregnant.
After birth, hormone levels shift quickly.
As estrogen drops, your hair starts to enter the shedding phase all at once instead of gradually like it normally would.
This is called telogen effluvium. It is a temporary type of hair shedding that can happen after physical or hormonal changes.
When does postpartum hair loss start?
Most women begin to notice shedding around 3 to 6 months postpartum.
It can feel sudden. You might see:
- More hair in the shower
- Hair on your pillow
- Strands coming out when brushing
It is not that you are losing more hair than normal overall. It is just that the hair that stayed in place during pregnancy is now shedding at the same time.
Can you prevent postpartum hair loss?
Supporting your hair doesn’t have to be complicated.
A simple, gentle routine can make this phase feel a lot more manageable.
We’re currently creating something specifically for postpartum hair and scalp support.
Join the waitlist here to be the first to know!
You cannot completely prevent it, but you can support your hair and scalp so things feel more manageable.
Here are a few gentle ways to prepare:
1. Nourish your body
Hair health starts from within.
- Try to include:
- Protein-rich foods
- Iron
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Plenty of water
2. Be gentle with your hair
Avoid tight hairstyles, excessive heat, and harsh products.
Keeping things simple and low tension can make a difference.
3. Start caring for your scalp early
Healthy hair growth starts at the scalp.
Simple habits like gentle scalp massage, using clean oils, and avoiding buildup can help support regrowth later on.
4. Set expectations
This part is often overlooked.
Knowing that shedding may happen and that it is temporary can make it feel less overwhelming when it starts.
You’re not doing anything wrong
It is easy to feel like something is off when you see more hair falling out than usual.
But postpartum shedding is a normal response to hormonal changes after birth. In most cases, hair growth returns over time.
A gentle note
If this is something you are thinking about or already going through, you are not alone.
We are currently working on something to support moms during this phase, with a focus on simple and natural care.
If you would like to hear when it becomes available, join our exclusive VIP waitlist to be the first to know when it launches!