How to Manage Hair Loss After Pregnancy and Regrow Your Hair Naturally

You’ve just brought life into the world — and now, a few months later, your hair is coming out in handfuls. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Hair loss after pregnancy or postpartum shedding is incredibly common, but that doesn’t make it any less frustrating or emotional.

‍

The good news? In most cases, it’s temporary. But that doesn’t mean you have to just ride it out without support. In this guide, we’ll break down why women lose hair after pregnancy, what’s normal, when to talk to a professional, and what you can do (gently and naturally) to support your hair’s recovery while you focus on healing and adjusting to your new chapter.

‍

Why Postpartum Shedding Happens

• Shedding typically starts around 3–4 months postpartum and can continue for several months
• Up to 50% of women experience noticeable hair loss after childbirth

Postpartum shedding is triggered by a natural hormonal shift: during pregnancy, high estrogen levels keep hair in the growth phase longer, which is why many people notice thicker, fuller strands. After birth, estrogen levels drop back to normal, and that extra hair your body was holding onto starts to shed. This process is known as telogen effluvium, a temporary shift where more follicles than usual enter the resting (and shedding) phase.

‍

5 Ways to Manage Hair Loss after Pregnancy and Boost Postpartum Hair Regrowth

‍

1. Focus on nutrition to support postpartum hair health

After delivering, your body enters a  recovery mode, and your hair reflects that. The best thing you can do? Make sure you're fueling yourself — even in small, realistic ways.

‍

Focus on easy-to-grab, protein-rich foods like boiled eggs, Greek yogurt, or lentil soup. Iron-rich options like spinach or fortified cereals can help replenish lost nutrients, especially if you experienced heavy bleeding. Add in snacks like almonds or pumpkin seeds for a boost of zinc and biotin, and try to get a little sunlight when you can for vitamin D.

‍

*Tip: If your doctor gives the green light, keep taking your prenatal vitamins or a high quality multivitamin. They’re often packed with the nutrients your body needs during postpartum recovery and regrowth.

‍

2. Prioritize Sleep (Even in Small Doses)

We know. Sleep and new motherhood don’t exactly go hand in hand. But when it comes to postpartum recovery and hair regrowth, sleep is one of the most powerful healing tools your body has — and it's often the first thing to go.

‍

This isn’t just about feeling tired. Poor sleep throws off your entire system — from your scalp to your supply. Here is why sleep is so important:

‍

Hormonal Imbalance

What happens: Sleep deprivation throws off hormone regulation — especially cortisol (stress) and melatonin (sleep and hair health). It can also affect prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production.

‍Impact: High cortisol can trigger shedding (telogen effluvium), while hormonal imbalance can interfere with mood, milk supply, and overall recovery.

‍

Disrupted Cell Regeneration

What happens: Your body does most of its cellular repair — including tissue healing and follicle renewal — during deep sleep.

‍Impact: Poor sleep delays healing, slows hair regrowth, and leaves you feeling depleted. It can also impact uterine recovery, immune function, and skin repair.

‍

Increased Stress & Inflammation‍

What happens: When you’re low on sleep, stress levels rise and your ability to manage inflammation decreases.

Impact: That inflammation can impact everything from your scalp’s circulation to your digestion, mood, and even milk let-down reflex.

‍

Impaired Nutrient Utilization‍

What happens: Sleep deprivation messes with how your body processes key nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamins D, B12, and E.

Impact: Even with a great diet or supplements, your body might not be absorbing what it needs — which affects hair, energy, immunity, and lactation.

‍

The Bottom Line‍

Sleep isn’t just beauty rest — it’s hormone balance, immune support, milk production, and hair regrowth all rolled into one. Even if it's broken or brief, make sleep a priority when you can. You’re not being selfish — you’re setting the foundation for healing.‍

‍

*Tip: If you’re struggling to find time to rest, light movement such as a nice slow walk with baby can also help lower cortisol and stress.

‍

3. Switch to a Hair-Friendly Routine

Postpartum hair is more fragile — it may feel thinner, drier, or just not like your usual hair. The key right now is being extra gentle and keeping things low-effort.

• Swap your regular brush for a wide-tooth comb or even your fingers and detangle slowly, especially when your hair is wet
• Choose sulfate-free, moisturizing shampoos to prevent dryness
• Avoid tight hairstyles (slick ponytails, heavy braids) that pull on the hairline - embrace the loose, messy bun
• Limit heat styling and opt for low-manipulation styles and just simply let your hair rest

‍

Less is more right now. Small shifts in your routine can help protect the hair you have while your body focuses on healing and regrowth

‍

4. Protect Your Hairline and Edges

Your edges take a hit during postpartum shedding — they’re some of the most sensitive hairs on your head. The goal right now is to protect, not over-style.

‍

Protect it by:

• Sleeping on a silk or satin pillowcase to reduce friction
• Wearing loose, soft scarves or bonnets at night for extra protection
• Keep your edges hydrated with a dab of leave-in conditioner or a light oil — even just once or twice a week can help
• Minimizing slicked-back styles and aggressive brushing, let your edges breathe

‍

5. Encourage Scalp Circulation

A little scalp love can go a long way. Regular, gentle massages help boost blood flow to your hair follicles — which supports healthy regrowth over time. Use nourishing oils like castor oil, rosemary oil, or jojoba oil and massage for 2–3 minutes a few times a week to support healthy regrowth. It’s a small act of care that helps your hair and gives you a moment to reconnect with yourself.

‍

Know When to Seek Professional Help

Most postpartum shedding slows down and improves on its own by 6 to 12 months. But if something feels off, trust your gut — you don’t have to wait it out in silence. If you notice:

• Bald patches or severe thinning
• Scalp pain, irritation, or scarring
• No improvement after 12 months postpartum

‍

Consult your OB-GYN as a starting point - they can check for underlying conditions like iron deficiency, thyroid imbalance, or other hormonal issues that can impact hair recovery.

‍

Remember: You Are Not Alone

Postpartum hair loss is incredibly common — and for most women, regrowth is absolutely possible. It’s not forever. And you already have the power to support your body’s natural recovery. Stay patient with the process. Focus on small, consistent habits. And most importantly, remember: regrowth isn’t just about hair — it’s part of your healing, inside and out.

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍

‍