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Postpartum Hair Loss: Why It Happens and When It Stops

Shedding hair a few months after birth is very common and temporary. Learn what causes it, how long it lasts and when to see a doctor.

Before you use this guide: This is general educational information, not an individual medical assessment. We do not identify a clinician reviewer on this page, so please confirm personal health decisions with your doctor, midwife or paediatrician.

If you are finding clumps of hair in your brush, in the shower or on your pillow a few months after having your baby, you are far from alone. This kind of shedding is very common, it is temporary, and it is not the same as going bald. The medical name is postpartum telogen effluvium.

Why it happens

During pregnancy, high oestrogen (estrogen) levels keep more of your hairs in their growing phase, which is why hair often looks thicker. After birth, hormone levels fall back to normal, and the extra hairs that were held in place shed at around the same time. Tiredness and the stress of life with a newborn may add to it. Breastfeeding does not cause hair loss.

When it starts and how long it lasts

Shedding usually starts about two to four months after birth, is often at its worst around four months, and settles gradually. For most people, hair returns to its usual thickness by around the baby's first birthday. You may see short new hairs growing back around your hairline, which is a good sign.

What you can do

• Be gentle with your hair. Avoid tight ponytails and braids, harsh treatments and heavy heat styling while it is fragile.
• Use a wide-toothed comb and a mild shampoo. Conditioner can reduce tangles and breakage.
• Eat a balanced diet with enough protein, iron and other nutrients. Our postpartum nutrition guide has ideas for busy days.
• Ask your pharmacist or doctor before taking hair supplements. Some, such as high-dose biotin, can interfere with certain blood tests, and none has been shown to stop postpartum shedding.
• Consider a haircut with layers or a fringe. This can make hair look fuller and help new growth blend in.
• Be patient. The shedding is a sign that your body is returning to its usual cycle.

When to see a doctor

• Shedding is still heavy more than 12 months after birth
• You have bald patches, or your scalp is itchy, scaly, red or sore
• You also feel very tired, cold, anxious or low, have palpitations, or notice changes in your weight. Thyroid problems are fairly common after pregnancy and can affect hair.
• You have heavy bleeding, feel breathless or look pale, which can be signs of low iron

Hair loss can feel upsetting when so much else is changing. If it is affecting how you feel about yourself, or you are feeling low in general, please talk to your midwife, health visitor or doctor.

This content is for general information only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and every baby is different. Always talk to your doctor, midwife or paediatrician about your own situation, and seek urgent care if you are worried.