Whether you’ve given birth quite recently or a few months ago, you should be spending those precious few months focused on your baby, not the state of your hair. We’re here to explain exactly what postpartum hair loss is, and reassure you that you’re not alone.
What is postpartum hair loss?
Postpartum hair loss is when mothers experience loss of their hair triggered by giving birth. Similarly to stress-related hair loss, this typically happens around three months after having a baby.
Pregnancy often goes hand in hand with thicker, faster-growing hair. You may have been lucky enough to be showered with compliments on your glowing skin and lustrous locks. This increased hair length and thickness during pregnancy makes it even more drastic when long, thick hair falls out, making bigger clumps. Which is why experiencing hair loss post-pregnancy can be particularly devastating.
Is it normal?
Yes. It’s super common, and you’re not alone. Postpartum hair loss affects many women and can be a bit of a shock to add to the already tough time of recovery after giving birth.
Although stressful, postpartum hair loss is a totally normal symptom of hormonal changes. But the one piece of good news? It’s temporary.
Hair growth will return to normal as the follicles return to their usual cycle, typically 6-12 months after birth.
What causes it?
Giving birth causes huge changes to the hormonal equilibrium. This change can even affect our hair.
Hair typically goes through stages of growth, resting, and then falling out. Giving birth can affect this cycle and push many hairs into the resting phase at the same time. Three months later, as is typical for the hair cycle, they all fall out.
What to do about it?
- Due to the phase of hair growth, in time it should return to normal on its own.
- In the meantime, you can try these tips to care for your hair as it normalises over the coming months.
- Visit a hairdresser. Getting haircut can help reduce the impact of shedding by decreasing the size of clumps. Plus your hair can be styled to add volume and give the impression of thickness.
- Change where you part your hair. Hair often thins towards the front — moving your side part to the middle or vice versa can help to hide thinning.
- Be gentle with brushing and styling. Your hair will appreciate some extra TLC.
- Eat nourishing foods to support hair growth.
- Use products that help promote healthy, growing hair. Although there’s not much we can do about hormonal changes and their effects, we can always strive to use products that will support our hair in returning to its healthy glory.
Every woman’s postpartum journey is different. Hair loss can be just one of many symptoms from hormonal changes. It may take a few weeks or a few months to recover, but always remember to nurture yourself. For any questions surrounding hair care, please reach out and we’ll do our best to help.