How to manage postpartum hair loss

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can keep more hairs in the growing phase. After delivery, a larger group may move into the resting and shedding phase together. Hair may come out during washing, brushing, or styling, with thinning most noticeable around the temples or along the part. This pattern is commonly diffuse rather than a single smooth bald patch. Other contributors, such as low iron, thyroid disease, nutritional strain, illness, or ongoing stress, can also affect shedding, so the timing and pattern matter.

Use a wide-tooth comb, avoid tight ponytails and extensions, and handle wet hair gently. Choose a mild shampoo and conditioner, and limit repeated heat, bleaching, and chemical processing while the scalp is sensitive. Adequate food, fluids, and rest support general recovery; supplements should be discussed before starting, particularly while breastfeeding or taking other medicines. A clinician can examine the scalp, review medicines and health changes, and decide whether blood tests or options such as [Hair Supplement Therapy](/treatments/hair-restoration/hair-supplement-therapy/) or [Topical Minoxidil](/treatments/hair-restoration/topical-minoxidil/) are appropriate. Read more about the symptom at [Hair Loss](/symptoms/hair-loss/).

Arrange a dermatology or primary-care review if shedding is sudden, occurs in sharply defined patches, leaves a painful or scaly scalp, or continues without improvement. Seek prompt care for scalp redness with pus, fever, or rapidly worsening tenderness. A review is also sensible when fatigue, dizziness, weight change, heavy bleeding, or other symptoms accompany hair loss, because these may point to a treatable condition rather than a hair-cycle change alone.

Ask whether the pattern fits postpartum shedding, whether your scalp needs examination, and whether medicines, iron status, thyroid function, or nutrition should be assessed. Ask which hair products and hairstyles to pause, and whether any treatment is compatible with breastfeeding. You can also ask what change would warrant an earlier follow-up.