Postpartum Hair Loss: When Does It Start and What Can You Do?
Written by Rafaela – Registered Nurse, Dermal Therapist, Cosmetic Injector and Trichologist.
Postpartum hair loss can feel sudden and alarming, but the hair falling today began changing phases months earlier. In most cases, it is a temporary shift in the natural hair cycle following pregnancy. Here is why it happens, when it usually starts and what you can realistically do to care for your hair and scalp.
Why Does Postpartum Hair Loss Happen?
Postpartum hair loss is a temporary form of shedding known as telogen effluvium.
During pregnancy, oestrogen and progesterone levels rise substantially. These hormonal changes are associated with more scalp hairs remaining in the anagen, or active growth phase for longer. This is why many women notice fuller hair and less shedding during pregnancy.
After the placenta is delivered, oestrogen and progesterone levels fall rapidly. This shift prompts many follicles to leave the growth phase and enter the resting phase together. The hair does not fall immediately—it is usually released several months later.
A study of 116 women found higher anagen rates during pregnancy, followed by lower anagen and higher resting-phase rates by the fourth postpartum month. Separate research tracking oestrogen and progesterone also confirmed that these hormones rise strongly during pregnancy and fall sharply after delivery.
When Does Postpartum Hair Loss Start?
Postpartum hair loss commonly begins around two to four months after giving birth and may become most noticeable around the fourth month.
This delay reflects the normal hair cycle. After the hormonal shift following delivery, affected follicles enter the resting phase before the hairs are eventually released. In other words, the hair shedding today began changing phases months earlier—it was not caused by something you did this week.
The same human hair-cycle study found the clearest shift towards the resting phase during the fourth postpartum month.
How Long Does Postpartum Hair Loss Last?
Postpartum shedding usually lasts for several months before gradually slowing. Early regrowth may become noticeable within six to nine months, although returning to previous fullness can take 12 months or longer.
The timeline varies, and factors such as nutrition, stress, general health and other hair-loss conditions can affect recovery. Research describes postpartum hair loss as temporary, diffuse shedding that typically continues for several months.
Can Postpartum Hair Loss Be Prevented?
Not completely. Once follicles have shifted into the resting phase following childbirth, no shampoo, oil or supplement can stop those hairs from completing their natural cycle.
The focus should be on supporting recovery: eating adequately, correcting any confirmed deficiencies, washing the scalp regularly and avoiding tight hairstyles, harsh chemicals and excessive heat. These measures may not prevent hormonal shedding, but they can reduce additional breakage and support healthier regrowth.
Does Everyone Experience Postpartum Hair Loss?
No. Hair-cycle changes after pregnancy are common, but not everyone notices significant shedding. Some women experience only a mild increase, while others see obvious thinning or large amounts of hair during washing.
One questionnaire study found that 91.8% of respondents reported some postpartum hair loss. However, because the results were self-reported, that figure may be higher than the rate across all women.
When Should Postpartum Hair Loss Be Investigated?
Seek professional advice if the shedding remains heavy beyond 12 months, becomes patchy, causes scalp symptoms or is accompanied by a widening part with little regrowth. Iron deficiency, thyroid changes and other hair-loss conditions may need to be ruled out, as postpartum shedding can sometimes reveal an underlying condition.
How Can You Care for Your Scalp During Postpartum Shedding?
Regular cleansing, a gentle five-minute daily scalp massage, gentle handling and avoiding tight hairstyles can help maintain a comfortable scalp while the natural hair cycle recovers.
Because postpartum shedding is usually temporary, avoid rushing into medicated or aggressive hair-growth treatments that alter the cycle unless another condition has been properly diagnosed. The award-winning Ellà Viè Scalp Elixir is a waterless blend of 11 oils and botanicals designed to nourish the scalp as a supportive pre-wash treatment. If breastfeeding, show the ingredient list to your healthcare professional before use.
The Takeaway
Postpartum hair loss is usually a temporary reset of the hair cycle—not permanent follicle damage. Give your body time, care for your scalp gently and seek professional advice if the shedding is patchy, severe or continues beyond 12 months.