While you were pregnant, your hair probably looked especially full and shiny. It’s only natural to feel concerned when, after the birth, you look at your hairbrush and find more hairs in it again. But don’t worry: postpartum hair loss is a natural reaction in your body, mostly caused by hormonal changes. In this article, we’ve summarized what other causes there may be and what can help with postpartum hair loss.

Causes of hair loss after pregnancy

In Pregnancy , your estrogen and progesterone levels increase significantly. While estrogen supports hair growth, progesterone strengthens the hair. As a result, most pregnant women lose less hair than usual. However, after childbirth, these two hormones drop quickly again—and your hair may start shedding more as well. This hormonal change is usually the main cause of hair loss after pregnancy. You often notice, a few weeks after birth , that more and more hair is falling out. However, it may also be that the hair loss starts only after several months —or not at all; every body has its own pace. Especially if you are stillness , the hormonal change usually happens a bit more slowly. In that case, your hair loss may only begin with Weaning .

Are your hairs mainly falling out along your parting, and were they thinning even before pregnancy? You might be experiencing hormonal hereditary hair loss . In that case, your body reacts sensitively to hormonal fluctuations, which can make hair loss after childbirth more pronounced—or cause it to appear for the first time.

But it’s not only hormones that can be to blame for hair loss—an iron deficiency and other nutritional deficiency symptoms can also play a role. Your iron needs increase during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Blood loss during childbirth and Rebleeding in Postpartum can quickly deplete iron stores. Therefore, have your iron levels checked by your doctor before and after childbirth, and ask how you can best meet your needs. During the blood test, it can also be checked whether other deficiencies, such as a vitamin B12 deficiency, are responsible for the hair loss.

Another strain on your hair is stress and sleep deprivation. Your body first needs to recover from the strain of Birth and adjust to the new daily life with a baby . It’s completely normal for everything not to run smoothly from the start, and for you as a family to still be finding your roles. Always remember: nobody is perfect, and becoming a mother is an ongoing process in which you’re allowed to make mistakes.

How long does hair loss last after childbirth?

Hair loss usually stops completely on its own once your hormone balance has stabilized—this can take three to six months after pregnancy, or sometimes up to a year.

If you still don’t notice any improvement after this time, or if you find that you’re experiencing extreme hair loss after childbirth, you should consult your doctor to determine the exact cause.

What helps against hair loss?

First, the bad news: unfortunately, there is no miracle cure that will stop hair loss overnight. Be patient with your body, which has just performed a small miracle. With a little time and patience , things will soon return to normal. Right now, it’s especially important that you continue to feel comfortable. And now for the good news: with a few tips and tricks in your hair routine, you can support hair growth and minimize hair loss.

• Gentle shampoos : Natural, soothing ingredients moisturize your scalp without causing irritation. A healthy scalp also supports your hair, as it can stimulate growth. When choosing shampoos, make sure they are free of silicones, sulfates, parabens, and artificial fragrances and colorings.

• Gentle styling : Try to avoid heat as much as possible, for example from a blow dryer, straightening iron, or curling wand. It’s gentler to squeeze your hair dry after washing—for example, with an old cotton T-shirt—and let it air-dry. Gentle combs or brushes detangle your hair without breakage and without much pulling. To prevent additional damage, you should also avoid chemical dyes.

• Neuer Haarschnitt : Now is the perfect time for a new feel-good look—whether a short haircut, bob, or layers. Ask your hairstylist which cut best suits you and your changed hair situation.

• Balanced and healthy nutrition: Your hair will also benefit from an adequate supply of vitamins and minerals . Special preparations against hair loss and dietary supplements should only be taken in consultation with your doctor. For example, vitex (chaste tree) is often recommended for hormonally caused hair loss. However, the plant can inhibit milk production, so you should not take it during breastfeeding.

• Peace and relaxation: Try not to worry too much about your hair—stress can lead to a vicious cycle. Create Breaks in everyday life with a baby, and try to get adequate sleep . And if you have a quiet moment right now, let your partner pamper you with a Kopfmassage . This promotes blood circulation in the scalp and gives you an extra boost of relaxation.

We hope these tips help you, and that you’ll soon feel completely happy with your hair again!