In this article:
What Exactly Happens to Oestrogen After Childbirth?
Your oestrogen levels may rise nearly 6 times higher than usual during pregnancy. This surge slows down the natural hair shedding and, in turn, gives you a fuller volume of hair. The levels drop only after you give birth and return to their pre-pregnancy levels.But the sudden dip is not good for your hair follicles, which go into the shedding phase (telogen). So, you may notice more hair fall in about 2-4 months postpartum.
Why Does Hair Shedding Happen After Childbirth?
Your hair growth cycle has three phases.- Anagen (growth phase) – Hair grows actively
- Catagen (transition phase) – Hair growth slows down
- Telogen (resting/shedding phase) – Hair falls out
How Long Does Postpartum Hair Shedding Last?
Postpartum hair shedding begins around 2-4 months after delivery and may continue for 6-12 months. The shedding becomes prominent when you wash or brush your hair around the hairline. The good thing is that your hair resumes its normal growth pattern by the time your baby turns one.Can Oestrogen Levels Affect Hair Texture Too?
You may notice a change in your hair texture along with the shedding.- Thinner or less voluminous hair
- Hair may feel drier or more brittle
- Curly when it used to be straight, or vice versa
Is Postpartum Hair Loss a Sign of Something Serious?
Postpartum hair shedding is normal and a temporary phase which will pass after your hormones stabilise. However, the condition can get worse due to the following factors:- Iron deficiency (anaemia)
- Thyroid imbalance
- Extreme stress or poor nutrition
- Lack of sleep
What Can You Do to Reduce Postpartum Hair Shedding?
Hormonal changes are inevitable, so you can do things that you can control to manage your hair shedding.- Eat a balanced diet by including foods rich in iron, zinc, vitamin D, biotin, and protein, such as eggs, lentils, spinach, fish, and nuts.
- Be gentle with your hair in such times and avoid binding tightly or styling your hair that can pull on delicate strands.
- Massage your scalp regularly to improve blood circulation and allow the nutrients to reach your hair roots.
- Mild shampoos work better when you are dealing with hair loss. You can opt for sulfate-free and paraben-free options available in the market and use conditioners that strengthen the hair shaft.
- Try deep breathing, take short walks, or do gentle yoga to relax. Stress can affect your hormones and make the hair shedding worse.
- If your doctor prescribed iron or vitamin supplements, keep taking them.
When Should You See a Doctor?
The following signs make it necessary for you to visit your doctor:- Hair loss that lasts for more than a year postpartum.
- Bald spots or uneven patches on your scalp.
- Symptoms of fatigue, sudden weight change, or dry skin (possible thyroid issues).
- Hair thinning is worse than normal shedding.
What to Do Next: A Simple Hair Care Checklist?
- Maintain a nutrient-rich diet
- Use gentle hair products
- Avoid chemical treatments for a few months
- Keep stress under control
- Trim regularly to reduce split ends
- Get enough sleep and hydration
- Visit a dermatologist if shedding persists
Emotional & Social Aspects
Watching a clump of hair now and then can make you worry about it. You may also lose your confidence with them, but this is just a temporary phase. It will pass once your hormones adjust to normal levels again. Your beauty is not defined by how much hair you have. Talk to your partner or family members to stay positive. If you still feel like your self-esteem is low, consider speaking with a counsellor.Postpartum hair shedding is quite normal because of the dip in your oestrogen levels after childbirth. It can be upsetting to lose your hair, but it is a phase which will pass. You can take care of your hair at such times by eating well and avoiding any harsh products. You can even allow healthy regrowth by seeking medical guidance if it feels necessary. Just be kind to yourself when your body is healing from the changes.
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FAQs on How Oestrogen Changes During Postpartum Hair Shedding?
- How can I tell if my postpartum hair loss is due to hormones or another condition?
If you notice hair loss 2 to 4 months after delivery and have no bald patches, it is mostly due to hormones. However, the problem can be due to thyroid or iron levels if it continues for a year, along with fatigue and mood changes. - Will my hair grow back to how it was before pregnancy?
Your hair growth pattern returns to normal after your hormones stabilise, which takes 6 to 12 months. Your volume may improve, but there may be minor changes in the texture. - Can breastfeeding affect postpartum hair shedding?
Your hair regrowth may be delayed because of low oestrogen levels if you are breastfeeding. This is just a temporary change and will improve after your hormones find a steady balance again.