Understanding pregnancy-related hair shedding

During pregnancy, women typically enjoy thicker, healthier, and shinier hair thanks to elevated hormone estrogen levels, which slows down hair loss. Rising estrogen levels naturally reduce hair follicle shedding. Consequently, most pregnant women experience reduced hair loss during pregnancy. However, not all pregnancies follow this pattern, and some women may still experience thinning hair or hair loss either during pregnancy or after childbirth (1–3).

On average, men and women lose around 50 to 100 hairs daily. Hair loss during and after pregnancy can be attributed to various factors, including stress, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, malnutrition, or underlying medical conditions (4,5). 

Many pregnant women may experience telogen effluvium, characterized by temporary hair thinning or shedding due to stress. Hair loss during the first trimester is more common and could be linked to the body's stress during the dramatic hormonal shifts necessary to support the developing baby. Hair loss from hormonal changes typically occurs later in pregnancy and may take two to four months to become noticeable. Importantly, hair loss due to this condition is not permanent and generally lasts less than six months (1,2).

Health factors that can affect hair during pregnancy

Conditions such as thyroid dysfunction, iron deficiency and other nutritional problems can contribute to increased shedding. A healthcare professional can investigate persistent or significant hair loss. [3] [6] [7] [8]

Thyroid problems

Thyroid disorders, such as hyperthyroidism (excessive thyroid hormone levels) or hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone levels), can be challenging to detect during pregnancy. Hypothyroidism, affecting approximately 2-3% of pregnant women, can manifest with symptoms like hair loss, muscle cramps, constipation, and fatigue. Postpartum thyroiditis, a thyroid inflammation that occurs in about 5% of women after childbirth, is also characterized by hair loss. In all cases of thyroid disorders, hair loss is a prominent symptom, typically diagnosed through blood tests (3,9,10).

Iron deficiency

Iron deficiency leads to inadequate oxygen supply due to a shortage of red blood cells. Symptoms can include fatigue, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath during exertion, and headaches. Pregnant women, especially those with closely spaced pregnancies, multiple pregnancies, or severe morning sickness, are more susceptible to iron deficiency anemia. A blood test can diagnose iron deficiency. While these conditions don't cause permanent hair loss, hair may not return to its standard thickness until hormone and vitamin levels normalize (11–15).

Postpartum hair loss

it is a temporary condition characterized by visible thinning, especially around the hairline and temporal areas. It's common for women to experience hair loss after childbirth, with peak shedding occurring around four months postpartum. This shedding, often called "excessive hair shedding," is attributed to a drop in estrogen levels after delivery (2,16).

Other possible causes of hair loss

Whether pregnant or not, hair loss due to telogen effluvium typically results in uniform thinning. Patches or more severe balding may be attributed to genetic and autoimmune conditions. Pregnant women could potentially have one of these conditions simultaneously.

Traction and hair damage

Hair loss may not always be related to pregnancy or genetic factors. Certain hairstyles, beauty treatments, or rough hair handling can cause hair loss, known as traction alopecia. Sometimes, hair follicles can become inflamed, potentially leading to scarring and permanent baldness (1,2).

Treatment during pregnancy

Many cases of pregnancy-related shedding improve without medical treatment. Gentle hair care may help minimise breakage, but treatment for iron deficiency, thyroid disease or another underlying cause should follow medical advice. Shampoos and conditioners cannot reliably prevent hormonally driven postpartum shedding. [1] [14]

Minoxidil is generally not recommended during pregnancy. Consult your obstetrician, GP, dermatologist or pharmacist before starting any hair-loss medication or supplement. Do not assume an ingredient is safe solely because it is natural. [23] Australian pregnancy medication guidance.

Some treatments for androgenetic alopecia are unsuitable during pregnancy. Evidence for low-level laser devices during pregnancy is limited; ask your clinician before using them. Any hair-care product, including the Dr Hamid range, should be assessed for ingredient suitability rather than assumed safe or effective for pregnancy-related shedding.

Treatment while breastfeeding

Breastfeeding changes which medicines and scalp products may be appropriate. For example, Australian Regaine product information advises against minoxidil during breastfeeding; specialist references differ on some topical-use circumstances. Seek individual advice from your GP, dermatologist or pharmacist before using minoxidil or other medicated products, and avoid exposing the infant to treated scalp or skin. [14] Australian product information.

Practical hair-care tips

Maintain a balanced diet

Get enough protein, iron, and other essential nutrients. Consult your doctor for advice on prenatal vitamins.

Review medicines and supplements

Check with your doctor to see if any medications or supplements you take may contribute to hair loss.

Avoid tight hairstyles

Avoid tight hairstyles that pull on your hair. Be gentle when washing and detangling your hair to minimize hair loss (15).

Practise gentle hair care

Allow your hair to rest naturally by avoiding harsh treatments such as hot rollers, curling irons, hot oil treatments, and permanent procedures.

Consult your healthcare professional

If hair loss persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, consult your doctor to explore other possible causes.

Choose products with care

Before using Dr Hamid hair-care products during pregnancy or breastfeeding, review their ingredients with a qualified clinician. Natural ingredients do not automatically establish safety or guaranteed regrowth.

Key takeaways

Hair shedding after childbirth is common and often temporary, with many women noticing the most shedding around four months postpartum. In most cases, fullness gradually improves, often by the baby’s first birthday. Good nutrition and gentle hair care can support general wellbeing and reduce breakage, but they do not guarantee prevention or regrowth of hair. Speak with your healthcare professional if shedding is prolonged, patchy, severe or accompanied by other symptoms. [10] [16] American Academy of Dermatology guidance.