Post-pregnancy hair loss and bald spots

Hormonal changes after delivery can shift many hairs into a resting phase, so hair may come out across the scalp rather than from one sharply outlined area. A smooth round or oval patch, broken hairs, scaling, redness, tenderness, or itching points to a different pattern. Alopecia areata commonly presents with smooth patches of hair loss; scalp ringworm can cause scale and inflamed areas. These symptoms do not identify the cause by themselves.

Photographs taken in similar lighting can help you describe whether a patch is enlarging, multiplying, or developing new short hairs.

Arrange a dermatology or primary-care assessment if a bald spot is distinct, expanding, or still present after general shedding settles. Until then, wash the scalp gently, avoid tight braids, extensions, frequent heat, and harsh chemical treatments, and use a wide-toothed comb. Do not share combs, brushes, hats, or pillows if there is scaling or concern about infection.

You can read about [Bald Patches](/symptoms/bald-patches/) and [Alopecia Areata](/conditions/alopecia-areata/) to compare symptom patterns.

Seek prompt medical advice for painful or swollen scalp areas, pus, marked crusting, fever, rapidly spreading loss, or loss of eyelashes or eyebrows. Book a routine review for persistent patchiness, repeated new patches, or visible scalp inflammation. A clinician may examine the scalp and hair shafts and decide whether tests are needed.

Could this be diffuse postpartum shedding or a patch-forming condition? What scalp signs would suggest infection? Should I pause any hair products or treatments while the cause is assessed?