Is Postpartum Hair Loss Normal? And When Does It Stop?
You’ve had your baby and you’ve probably swapped your pregnancy glow and lush hair for under-eye circles and sweat pants. You’re tired and just getting adjusted to your new family dynamic and suddenly around 3 months postpartum you notice your hair falling out! Is it stress? Lack of sleep? Breastfeeding?
First don’t panic!
Postpartum hair loss is temporary and completely normal. Most women notice Postpartum hair loss around 3 months after giving birth. Hair usually returns to its regular growth cycle around 6 months to 12 months postpartum.
So What causes postpartum hair loss?
Hormones – yes the same ones that gave you lush hair are also responsible for the hairs falling out! During pregnancy, hormones rise. This rise reduces the number of hairs that your hair naturally sheds on a daily basis, thus making your hair appear fuller and thicker.
However, once you’ve given birth and your hormone levels return back to normal, your hair starts shedding again, including the hairs that didn’t shed during pregnancy.
When Does Postpartum hair loss start?
There is really no set date when or even if you will experience hair loss postpartum. It takes time for your hormones to return to normal and this will be different for each woman. However, most women who experience hair loss usually start to experience it around 3 months postpartum.
How long does postpartum hair loss last?
The good news is it won’t last forever. But it can take between 6 to 12 months postpartum for your hair to return to the way it was before pregnancy. There are things you can do during this phase to make you feel more comfortable. Some moms like to cut their hair shorter during this time or cut their hair into a style that requires less maintenance.
How much hair loss postpartum is normal?
It can be worrying to suddenly lose more hair than you’re used to. On average, humans lose around 80-100 hairs throughout the day, every single day!. But after giving birth women can lose up to a whopping 400 a day thanks to those hormones!
While you may feel like your hair has turned from cousin itt during pregnancy to uncle festers postpartum, It’s normal and your hair should be back to its pre-pregnancy days around 6 – 12 months postpartum.
If you are concerned you’re losing too much hair, then go see your doctor.
Does Breastfeeding contribute to Postpartum hair loss?
In short no. Postpartum hair loss can happen whether you breastfeed or not. Each woman is different and will have a different experience regardless if they breastfed or not.
Some women barely notice any hair loss postpartum, while others may notice the shower clogged with hair after every wash.
Things you can do to reduce hair loss
Take care of yourself, physically and mentally. The postpartum period is so incredibly wonderful but also tough!
Lack of sleep and hormonal changes can wreak havoc on your mind, health, and spirit. Baby blues often appear during this time and while you may not feel that you have any second to nurture yourself, try to!
Accept help from family and friends so you can take a nap, shower, or just have 20 minutes to focus on yourself for a moment.
- Stress can play a part in hair loss so make sure to take some time for you each day!
- Get in the habit of going outside each day for a walk being in nature boosts your mood and energy
- Continue to take your prenatal or postnatal vitamins
- Eat healthily
- Don’t wash your hair every day
- Use scrunchies instead of tight elastic bands
- Avoid coloring or bleaching your hair until the shedding stops
Did you experience hair loss postpartum or do you have any tips to share with other moms? Leave them in the comments!
