This article is a translation of the original French article “Perte de cheveux après grossesse et acouchement” and is intended for the French market. Treatments, availability and prices may differ at our London clinic.
Is postpartum hair loss normal?
Yes, it is completely normal. Postpartum hair loss is a common phenomenon in new mothers. Fortunately, it is generally temporary and your hair should regain its usual density after a few months.
Postpartum hair loss: a common phenomenon
Postpartum hair loss, also known as postpartum alopecia, is something many new mothers experience. After childbirth, hormonal fluctuations, notably the sharp drop in oestrogen, disrupt the hair growth cycle. During pregnancy, hairs stay longer in the growth phase (anagen), giving thicker hair. But after childbirth, this growth phase is reset and many hairs enter the shedding phase (catagen) at the same time.
This can be quite dramatic. You may see whole strands falling out when you brush your hair or take a shower. It is normal and, above all, temporary. Postpartum hair loss usually begins between 2 and 4 months after childbirth and can last up to 6 months, or even longer if you are breastfeeding.
Do not panic, everything will return to normal. Hair density goes back to normal once the body has rebalanced hormonally. In the meantime, eat a balanced diet, sleep well and avoid harsh hair treatments. If the hair loss persists beyond 6 months, seeing a dermatologist may be a good idea to rule out other possible causes such as iron deficiency or hypothyroidism.
Postpartum hair loss is generally temporary
Postpartum hair loss, although disconcerting, is generally temporary. Most new mothers see their hair regain its usual density within a few months. This phenomenon, known as postpartum telogen effluvium, often occurs within three months of childbirth and can last up to six months. Sometimes this period can extend up to a year, especially if you are breastfeeding.
Do not panic, it is a temporary phase. Adopt a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, calcium, magnesium and B vitamins to support the health of your hair. Brewer's yeast, for example, may also help, but ask your doctor for advice first. At the same time, look after your scalp: massage it regularly with castor oil to stimulate hair growth.
If the hair loss persists beyond six months, it may be helpful to consult a healthcare professional. Iron or vitamin B deficiencies, or thyroid problems, may be the cause. A blood test can then detect any such deficiencies. Finally, be gentle with your hair: avoid harsh treatments, set your styling tools to low settings and brush it gently.
When does hair loss occur after childbirth?
Hair loss generally begins between 2 and 4 months after the birth of your baby. This is when the pregnancy hormones, which kept your hair in the growth phase, start to stabilise. However, this timing can vary from person to person, influenced by factors such as breastfeeding or stress.
To manage this period better, here are a few practical tips:
- Adopt a balanced diet: rich in protein, iron, calcium, magnesium and B vitamins, these nutrients are essential for the health of your hair.
- Use gentle hair products: opt for shampoos and anti-hair-loss lotions that can help strengthen your hair.
- Look after your scalp: regularly massaging your scalp with castor oil can stimulate hair growth.
- Relax: stress can worsen hair loss, so take time to unwind and rest.
If the hair loss persists beyond six months, it may be helpful to consult a healthcare professional to rule out other possible causes such as iron deficiency or thyroid problems.
Postpartum hair loss varies according to the individual and hormonal factors.
Postpartum hair loss is not the same experience for every new mother. It can vary considerably from one person to another depending on several factors. Hormonal fluctuations play a key role. During pregnancy, high oestrogen levels prolong the hair growth phase, but after childbirth, the sharp drop in these hormones triggers hair loss. The duration and intensity of this shedding can also be influenced by other factors.
For example, breastfeeding can prolong the production of certain hormones, thereby delaying hair loss. Stress and fatigue, common after the arrival of a newborn, can also make the situation worse. In addition, nutritional deficiencies, particularly in iron, B vitamins and zinc, can weaken the hair follicles and accentuate hair loss.
Looking after yourself during this period is crucial. Adopt a balanced diet, rich in essential nutrients, and avoid tight hairstyles or harsh hair treatments. If the hair loss worries you or persists beyond six months, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional to rule out other possible causes and obtain advice tailored to your situation.
When does hair loss stop after childbirth?
Postpartum hair loss can seem never-ending, but it does come to an end. In general, this phase of hair loss lasts from 2 to 6 months. However, for some women, especially those who are breastfeeding, hair loss can extend up to a year. Do not worry, your hair will regain its usual density over time.
Up to 12 months or more with prolonged breastfeeding.
Postpartum hair loss can indeed extend up to 12 months, or even longer, especially if you are breastfeeding. Breastfeeding prolongs the production of certain hormones, which can delay the hair cycle's return to normal. This can be frustrating, but it is a temporary phase.
How can you prevent hair loss after childbirth?
Hair loss after childbirth can be stressful, but there are ways to minimise it. Adopting healthy lifestyle habits, with a balanced diet and sufficient sleep, is essential. In addition, food supplements and specific hair products can help strengthen your hair during this delicate period.
Improving your lifestyle: eating well, sleeping well
To minimise hair loss after childbirth, healthy lifestyle habits are essential. This starts with a balanced diet. Favour foods rich in vitamins, iron, protein, calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin B8. For example, green vegetables, nuts, lean meats and oily fish are excellent choices. These nutrients are crucial for strengthening your hair and encouraging regrowth.
Next, sleep plays a key role. With a newborn, it can be difficult to sleep well, but try to rest whenever you can. Fatigue can worsen hair loss, so do not hesitate to ask for help so that you can recover.
Food supplements can also be beneficial. Brewer's yeast, rich in essential amino acids and B vitamins, is often recommended. It is compatible with breastfeeding and can help strengthen your hair.
Finally, look after your scalp. Massage it regularly with castor oil mixed with another vegetable oil to stimulate blood circulation and encourage hair regrowth. Avoid tight hairstyles and harsh hair products.
Remember to consult a healthcare professional before starting any course of food supplements. This will allow you to choose the products best suited to your specific needs and avoid interactions with any other treatments you may be following.
