When Does Postpartum Hair Loss Starts? And Why it Happens?

A couple of months after the birth of your baby into this world, you might feel like you’re settling in, adapting the normal routine, and (fingers crossed) getting those precious hours of sleep back.

Suddenly, something unusual happens in your life.

Your hair starts to fall out at an alarming pace. But don’t fret about it. This postpartum condition is totally normal, and there are numerous tried and tested ways to deal with it.

In this article, we will study postpartum hair loss, when it starts, why it happens, and how to manage it.


What Causes Postpartum Hair Loss?

The majority of females notice changes in their hair when they’re pregnant. Their hairs get thicker, fuller, and a bit dryer. After conception, these same women may discover that their hair starts falling out seriously.

The simple explanation is this:

There are numerous hormonal changes that take place while you’re expecting; one of them is responsible for hair growth.

In fact, the hormones that are active in your body actually help in avoiding shredding. A normal man or woman loses 50 to 100 hairs per day.

After delivery, your hormones return to their normal state, which means that there will be a big drop in estrogen. This decline stimulates your typical shedding schedule that you haven’t experienced for months.

This phenomenon is called telogen effluvium and is typically started by a big change in the body, like giving birth.


When Does Postpartum Hair Loss Start?

A study shows postpartum hair loss starts with the fluctuation of oestrogen levels in your body after the 3 months of your childbirth.

In worst postpartum hair loss cases, there is an overproduction of oestrogen in pregnancy, which leads to an increase in the level of progesterone. This spike in hormone levels helps nourish the baby and carry nutrients from you to your baby.

However, if you have any health issues or an underlying health condition, the postpartum hair loss can start a way earlier.

Pregnancy weakens the body and it increases the risk of developing certain issues, such as an iron deficiency, which happens when the blood supply escalates to provide the fetus with blood and oxygen. Poor nutrition can also result in hair loss.

Therefore, a balanced nutrient diet/absorption is vital for mother and child.

When you consume insufficient proteins, minerals, and vitamins, this can be dangerous for both health. When your body has an iron deficiency or lack of other nutrients, it is suggested to take tablets of postpartum hair loss vitamins to enable your body to recover itself.


How Long Does It Last?

The hair loss postpartum within a year is different from postpartum hair loss after 3 years.

Because of this, it is important to comprehend the differences between short-term and long-term postpartum hair loss:

• Around 90 days postpartum, hair loss is still possible, with visible thin hair and shedding. When you face extreme postpartum hair loss, you can see the signs of abnormally thin hairs or baldness.
  
  
• At 4 months postpartum, hair loss could be the highest, but after that, your hair may become more stable and thinning slows down.
  
  
• By 150 days of postpartum hair loss, hair loss is not so apparent and hair may start to regrow, although the extent can differ from person to person. On average, it can take 6 to 12 months for your hair to fully recover.
  
  
• Sometimes, in the long-term postpartum hair loss of a year, there could be symptoms of thinning. This takes place when the natural hair cycle is disrupted, and in this situation, you may undergo postpartum hair loss to attain normal volume of your hair.

How to Stop Postpartum Hair Loss?

In rare cases, postpartum hair loss sheds equally from all over your head. Sometimes clumps are removed when you’re combing it or shampooing it in the shower.

In some situations, women lose the majority of their hair around their scalp, which makes their hair appear thin and as if they’ve gone bald.

Regardless of the matter, it’s not permanent.

Follow these steps to keep your hair looking its very best during this transition:

Have a new haircut or color: An expert hair stylist can assist you in dealing with your postpartum hair and refresh your appearance. A short cut, soft bangs, layers, or even a new hair color can make thinned areas less visible and lift your self-esteem.

Maintain it moussed and moist: The right products can work wonders for fullness. A dense mousse can instantly plump up your strands, while regular deep or leave-in conditioners keep your hair soft, hydrated, and strong during this phase.

Change your part: If thinning is near your temples, consider switching up your part. A side part can cleverly cover those spots while giving you a fresh look. Add texture. Straight, clean styles tend to highlight thinning hair. Embrace your natural curls or add some waves with a curling iron to create extra body and volume.

Accessorize: Headbands, scarves, and bandanas are not only trendy but also a lifesaver for covering up hair loss. In addition, they make for quick, effortless styling—perfect for busy mornings!


On a Final Note

In short, postpartum hair loss is a very common and temporary condition induced by hormonal changes. There is no doubt that it can frustrate you, and with time, your hair will return to its normal cycle of growth.

In between this recovery period, practice self-compassion, as it needs care and patience in this journey. If your hair loss persists or feels excessive, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare professional.


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