I remember the first time I noticed it. I was brushing my hair a few months after having my baby and the amount that came out in my brush stopped me cold. Then in the shower — oh my goodness. I thought something was seriously wrong with me. Nobody — not my doctor, not my mama, not a single person — had warned me that this was coming.
So if you are currently standing in your bathroom staring at a clump of hair in your hand wondering what on earth is happening to your body — this blog post is for you. You are not alone and you are going to be okay. 💛
"Postpartum hair shedding is one of the most common — and least talked about — experiences of new motherhood. You are not losing your hair. You are shedding what pregnancy held on to."
Why Does It Happen?
During pregnancy your hormones — especially estrogen — are at an all time high. One of the side effects of all that extra estrogen is that your hair stays in the growth phase longer than usual. This means less shedding during pregnancy, which is why so many mamas notice their hair looking thicker and fuller while pregnant.
Then baby arrives. Your estrogen levels drop dramatically — and all that hair that was being held in the growth phase suddenly shifts into the shedding phase all at once. It can feel alarming but it is completely normal. Your body is simply catching up on the shedding it skipped during those nine months.
When Does It Start and Stop?
Little to no shedding
Hormones are still adjusting. You may not notice much change yet.
Shedding begins
This is when most mamas start to notice significant hair loss. This is the peak shedding period.
Peak shedding
Often the most intense period. Handfuls in the shower, clumps in the brush. Completely normal!
Slowing down
Shedding begins to slow and new hair growth starts to appear — you may notice baby hairs around your hairline!
Back to normal
For most mamas hair returns to its pre-pregnancy thickness by baby's first birthday!
How Much Shedding is Normal?
Normally we shed about 50-100 hairs per day. During postpartum shedding you may shed up to 300+ hairs per day — which can look and feel alarming especially if you have thick or curly hair. The photo above is from my own experience — that is a LOT of hair. But I want you to know that my hair grew back and yours will too. 💛
💛 When to see a doctor
While postpartum shedding is normal — excessive hair loss that continues past 12 months, patchy hair loss, or shedding accompanied by fatigue, weight changes, or feeling cold all the time could signal a thyroid issue. Always check with your doctor if you are concerned!
Tips to Manage It
Keep taking your prenatal vitamins
Biotin, iron, and folic acid support hair health. Don't stop your prenatals after delivery — your body still needs them!
Eat protein and iron rich foods
Hair is made of protein! Eggs, chicken, fish, lentils, spinach, and nuts all support hair regrowth.
Stay hydrated
Dehydration can worsen hair loss especially if you are breastfeeding. Drink plenty of water every single day!
Be gentle with your hair
Avoid tight hairstyles, heat styling, and harsh chemical treatments. Let your hair rest while it recovers!
Try a scalp massage
Gentle scalp massages with oils like castor oil, rosemary oil, or coconut oil can stimulate circulation and encourage new growth.
Consider a trim
A fresh cut can make thinning hair look fuller and healthier. Sometimes a new style helps you feel more confident during this season!
Rest and manage stress
Stress worsens hair loss. Sleep when you can, ask for help, and give yourself grace. Your body is healing!
It WILL grow back 💛
I know it feels scary. I know looking at that drain or your brush can bring you to tears. But I promise you — this is temporary. Your hair WILL grow back. Your body went through something extraordinary and it is adjusting. Be patient with yourself. Be gentle with yourself. You are doing amazing. 🌸
⚕️ This post is for informational purposes only. If you have concerns about excessive hair loss please consult your healthcare provider.