Hair Loss in New Moms: Postpartum Hair Loss and What to Do About It
Most new moms know to expect sleepless nights and diaper changes, but not hair loss. A 2024 survey found that 67% were shocked by how much hair they lost after pregnancy. The good news is that it’s usually temporary. Most moms notice the shedding around 2–4 months after giving birth, and hair growth typically returns to normal within 6-12 months.
Although postpartum hair loss is temporary, it can still feel overwhelming. That’s why we created this guide to reassure new moms and help them understand what’s happening. Here’s what’s really going on with postpartum hair loss, why it happens, and how to manage it.
What Causes Postpartum Hair Loss?
The primary cause is hormonal change, specifically, a sharp drop in estrogen after delivery. During pregnancy, estrogen levels rise and stay high. This extra estrogen keeps your hair in the “growth” phase (called anagen) much longer than usual. This is why many pregnant women notice their hair looks thicker, shinier, and fuller.
After you give birth, your estrogen levels return to normal quickly. That sudden shift pushes your hair into the resting and shedding phase (called telogen), all at once. The result is a noticeable increase in hair loss around 2 to 4 months postpartum. This isn’t new hair falling out; it’s the hair your body held onto during pregnancy finally catching up and shedding.
Other contributing factors can make it worse:
- Stress (emotional or physical from childbirth)
- Sleep deprivation
- Nutrient depletion (especially iron, vitamin D, biotin, and protein)
- Thyroid changes (postpartum thyroiditis can trigger or worsen shedding)
All of these can make hair loss feel more dramatic, but again, it’s usually temporary.
When Does Postpartum Hair Loss Start?
Postpartum hair loss usually starts around 2 to 4 months after giving birth. You might notice more hair than usual coming out in the shower, on your pillow, or when brushing. This shedding can feel sudden, but it’s just your hair cycle returning to normal after being in a prolonged growth phase during pregnancy.
How Long Does Postpartum Hair Loss Last?
Most postpartum hair loss lasts about 3 to 6 months, but it can take up to a year for your hair to fully return to its pre-pregnancy growth cycle. You should see noticeable regrowth and less daily shedding by your baby’s first birthday.
When Does Postpartum Hair Loss Stop?
Postpartum hair shedding usually stops by 6 to 12 months after delivery. For most women, the heaviest shedding happens between months 3 and 6, then gradually slows down. If you’re still seeing significant hair loss after a year, it’s a good idea to check in with a hair loss doctor to rule out other causes like thyroid issues or iron deficiency.
How to Prevent Postpartum Hair Loss
You can’t completely prevent postpartum hair loss. It’s a normal part of the recovery process, but you can support your hair and scalp to minimize shedding and encourage healthy regrowth. Here’s what helps:
- Eat nutrient-rich meals. Focus on protein, iron, zinc, vitamin D, and B vitamins. These nutrients support both your overall health and hair growth. Focus on whole foods like leafy greens, eggs, lean meats, beans, nuts, and whole grains to nourish your body from the inside out.
- Keep taking your prenatal vitamins. Even after pregnancy, your body still needs extra nutrients, especially if you’re breastfeeding. Prenatal vitamins help fill in the gaps and support tissue repair, hormone regulation, and hair growth. Look for ones with biotin, iron, and folic acid, which all support healthy hair.
- Be gentle with your hair. Your hair is in a fragile state right now. Avoid tight ponytails, buns, or braids that pull on your scalp. Heat tools like straighteners and curling irons can weaken the hair shaft, so use them sparingly. Stick with a wide-tooth comb, pat hair dry instead of rubbing with a towel, and avoid chemical treatments like coloring or perms until shedding slows down.
- Manage stress where you can. Being a new mom is exhausting, but stress plays a major role in hair loss. High cortisol levels can shift more hair into the shedding phase. You don’t need a full spa day. Short walks, 10 minutes of deep breathing, or even asking for help with the baby so you can shower in peace can lower stress and support your body’s recovery.
- Check your shampoo and conditioner. Go for gentle, sulfate-free products that won’t strip your scalp. Look for formulas designed to strengthen hair, add volume, or support thinning hair. For targeted care, Dr. Ziering’s Follicle Cleanse and Sustenance are designed to help restore hair health. Learn more and shop the full set.
While you can’t stop the shedding completely, these steps can make a noticeable difference in how your hair looks and feels while it recovers.
When to See a Doctor for Postpartum Hair Loss
Postpartum hair loss is usually temporary, so you don’t have to seek treatment. But there are times when it’s smart to get a professional opinion. Here’s when to see a hair loss doctor:
- It’s been more than 12 months and shedding hasn’t slowed down
- Your part is widening or scalp is becoming more visible
- You’re noticing bald patches or dramatic thinning
- You have other symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or irregular periods (could point to thyroid or hormonal issues)
- You’re feeling anxious or self-conscious about the hair loss and want solutions
A board-certified hair loss specialist at Ziering Medical will help determine the underlying cause and recommend safe, effective postpartum hair loss treatments tailored to your needs. Call or visit a Ziering Medical clinic near you to book a consultation today.
We serve patients all over the greater Tri-state area of New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, as well as the greater Southern California area from Los Angeles and Beverly Hills to Newport Beach and San Diego. We also offer consultations for patients in and around Salt Lake City.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hair loss after pregnancy normal, or should I be worried?
Yes, it’s normal. Most women shed hair after birth due to hormone changes. It usually resolves within 6–12 months.
Am I going to go bald?
No. It may feel like a lot, but it’s temporary. Your hair will grow back.
Is there anything I can do to stop it or slow it down?
You can’t stop it completely, but a healthy diet, prenatal vitamins, stress management, and gentle hair care can help.
Is it safe to use minoxidil while I am breastfeeding?
Minoxidil—whether oral or topical—isn’t safe to use while breastfeeding, unless you’ve fully weaned your baby or decided not to breastfeed at all.
Should I talk to a doctor about it?
Yes, especially if it lasts over a year, causes bald patches, or comes with other symptoms like fatigue or weight changes. During your consultation with a Ziering doctor, they’ll help determine whether your hair loss is part of the normal postpartum process or a sign of something else that needs treatment.