Postpartum Hair Loss: Why Is My Hair Falling Out After Birth?

One of the biggest postpartum surprises for many mums?
The sudden hair loss.

You finally feel like you’re settling into motherhood… then one day you notice hair everywhere. In the shower. On your pillow. Wrapped around your fingers during a feed.

It can feel scary, but postpartum hair loss is actually very common and usually temporary.

Why Does Postpartum Hair Loss Happen?

During pregnancy, higher estrogen levels keep more hair in the growth phase. That’s why many women notice thicker, fuller hair while pregnant.

After giving birth, hormone levels start shifting again. As estrogen drops, all the hair that was “held onto” during pregnancy begins falling out at once.

This is called postpartum hair loss.

It usually:

• Starts around 2 to 4 months postpartum
• Peaks around 4 to 6 months
• Slowly improves within the first year

How Much Hair Loss Is Normal?

Honestly, it can feel like a lot.

Many postpartum mums notice:

• More hair falling out in the shower
• Hair all over the floor
• Extra hair loss while brushing
• Thinning around the hairline or temples

Even though it looks dramatic, postpartum hair loss usually does not cause permanent hair loss.

Other Things That May Contribute

Hormones are the main reason, but postpartum recovery itself can also affect hair health.

Things like:

• Lack of sleep
• Stress
• Low iron levels
• Nutrient depletion after pregnancy
• Breastfeeding demands
• Not eating enough postpartum

can all play a role too.

Your body is still recovering while also caring for a baby, which is a lot physically and mentally.

What Can Help Support Hair Health Postpartum?

You can’t always completely stop postpartum hair loss, but there are ways to support your body during this phase.

Nourish Your Body

Hair health relies on nutrients like:

• Protein
• Biotin
• Iron
• Zinc
• Vitamin D
• Collagen
• Silica

Eating balanced meals, staying hydrated, and getting enough nutrients can help support recovery from within.

Be Gentle With Your Hair

Your hair may feel more fragile postpartum, so try to:

• Avoid very tight hairstyles
• Reduce heat styling
• Use gentle brushes
• Avoid over-processing or bleaching

Support Your Postpartum Recovery

Rest matters too. Recovery isn’t just about “bouncing back.” Your body is healing, hormonally adjusting, and for many mums, also producing milk around the clock.

Consider Postpartum Hair Support

Some mums also choose supplements designed to support hair, skin, and nails postpartum.

Formulas with ingredients like:

• Lustriva® (biotin + silica)
• Multi collagen complex
• Essential vitamins and minerals

may help support healthier-looking hair over time.

When Should You Check With A Doctor?

Postpartum hair loss is normal, but it’s worth speaking to a healthcare professional if:

• Hair loss feels excessive
• You notice bald patches
• Hair loss continues past 12 months postpartum
• You’re also feeling extremely tired or dizzy

Sometimes low iron or thyroid issues can contribute to ongoing hair loss.

A Little Reminder For Postpartum Mums

Postpartum hair loss can feel emotional, especially during a season where everything already feels overwhelming.

But for most mums, it does get better with time.

Your body has been through a huge transition. Healing takes time, and so does hair recovery 🤍