Hair loss after pregnancy: what happens and what you can do
Many new mothers notice, two to four months after giving birth, that they are losing more hair: in the brush, in the shower, on the pillow. This is common and, in the vast majority of cases, temporary.
Why does hair fall out after giving birth?
During pregnancy, hormonal changes extend the growth phase of the hair: you lose less than usual and your hair often looks thicker. After the birth, these hairs all enter the resting phase at the same time, then fall out. This is known as postpartum telogen effluvium.
How long does it last?
Hair loss is usually most visible between the third and sixth month after giving birth, then gradually decreases. For most women, hair returns to its usual volume within the following year.
How to support your hair
- A varied diet with enough protein, iron and vitamins.
- Gentle care: a soft brush, water that is not too hot, no tight hairstyles.
- Rest as much as you can: tiredness and stress also affect your hair.
- A suitable supplement: biotin, zinc and selenium contribute to the maintenance of normal hair.
When to see a doctor
If hair loss continues for more than a year, appears in patches or comes with severe tiredness, talk to your doctor: a blood test (iron, thyroid) may be useful. If you are breastfeeding, ask for their advice before taking a supplement.
