Why does hair fall after delivery?

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can keep more hairs growing. After delivery, that support changes and several hairs may shed together during washing or brushing. This pattern is called Telogen Effluvium and usually looks like diffuse thinning rather than sharply defined bald patches. Blood loss, low iron, thyroid changes, restricted eating, illness, emotional strain, and disrupted sleep can add to shedding. Smooth round patches, scalp scale, broken hairs, or loss concentrated along tight hairstyles suggest another diagnosis such as Alopecia Areata, Scalp Ringworm, or Traction Alopecia.

Handle hair gently, loosen braids and extensions, and avoid repeated heat or chemical processing while the scalp is shedding. Eat regular, varied meals and discuss supplements before taking them, particularly while breastfeeding. A clinician can examine the scalp and decide whether blood tests or treatment are needed. Patterned thinning may need assessment for Female Pattern Hair Loss; do not start Finasteride Treatment without specialist advice, especially during breastfeeding or if pregnancy is possible.

Arrange a dermatology review if shedding is severe, continues without improvement, forms bald patches, or comes with scalp pain, redness, scale, or pus. Seek medical advice sooner for marked tiredness, dizziness, palpitations, or other symptoms that could indicate anaemia or thyroid disease. Prompt assessment helps identify treatable contributors.

Does this look like Telogen Effluvium or another type of Hair Loss? Should iron or thyroid health be checked? Which treatments are compatible with breastfeeding, and how should I protect new growth?