Postpartum Hair Loss: Why It Happens and When It Stops

Quick answer: Postpartum hair loss happens because oestrogen drops sharply after birth, releasing hair that pregnancy held in its growth phase. Most women notice it around 3–6 months after giving birth, with shedding peaking near 4 months and resolving by 12 months. It is normal and temporary. See your GP if it is patchy, severe, or continues beyond 12 months.

What parents need to know

You survived pregnancy, labour and the newborn stage, and now your hair is falling out in alarming handfuls. Postpartum hair loss is one of the most common (and least talked about) changes new mums experience, and it can feel alarming. It's almost always temporary.

Why does postpartum hair loss happen?

During pregnancy, elevated oestrogen levels cause your hair to stay in its growth phase for longer than usual, which is why many women enjoy noticeably thicker, lusher hair while pregnant. After birth, oestrogen levels drop sharply, and all that hair that was held in the growth phase is suddenly released at once.

The result is what dermatologists call telogen effluvium — a temporary but significant increase in hair shedding. You might notice it most when washing or brushing your hair, or finding large amounts on your pillow.

When does postpartum hair loss start?

Most women notice hair loss beginning around 3–6 months after giving birth, once hormone levels have settled. It can feel sudden and alarming, but it's almost always a delayed reaction to the hormonal shift at birth rather than an ongoing problem.

How long does it last?

For most women, postpartum hair shedding peaks around 4 months postpartum and resolves by 12 months, often much sooner. Hair typically returns to its pre-pregnancy thickness by your baby's first birthday.

Is it normal to lose this much hair?

Yes. While it can look alarming in the shower or on your hairbrush, postpartum hair loss is a normal physiological response and rarely leads to noticeable thinning or bald patches. If you're seeing patchy hair loss, significant scalp changes, or shedding that continues well beyond 12 months, speak to your GP as there may be another cause such as thyroid changes (which are also common postnatally) or iron deficiency.

What can help?

• Nutrition: Ensure you are eating enough protein, iron and biotin-rich foods. Iron deficiency is common postpartum and can worsen hair loss — if you are concerned, ask your GP for a blood test.
• Gentle hair care: Avoid tight hairstyles, heat styling and harsh chemical treatments while your hair is more fragile.
• Volumising products: A good volumising shampoo and conditioner can help hair look fuller while it regrows.
• Patience: Frustratingly, the most effective remedy is time. Hair regrowth is happening beneath the surface even when it doesn't feel like it.

Frequently asked questions

What helps with postpartum hair loss?

Eat enough protein, iron and biotin-rich foods, avoid tight hairstyles, heat styling and harsh chemical treatments, and try a volumising shampoo and conditioner. Time is the most effective remedy.