55+ Postpartum Hair Loss Statistics: Prevalence, Mental Well-Being, Treatments, and Advice
55+ Postpartum Hair Loss Statistics:
Prevalence, Mental Well-Being, Treatments, and Advice
Miriam Otero
15 min
July 19, 2024
Did you know that shedding affects 60-70% of new moms? [Source: 9] Yep! Jeff Donovan, the dermatologist and president of the Canadian Hair Loss Foundation, confirmed this in an interview with HuffPost Canada.
Hair loss after childbirth is known as "pregnancy alopecia" or "telogen effluvium" (TE). TE refers to temporary hair loss following significant stress, such as weight loss or pregnancy. It usually begins two to three months after the stressful event and resolves in about six months.
Dr. Alan J. Bauman, MD, ABHRS, IAHRS, FISHRS, Founder, CEO, and medical director of Bauman Medical, explains, “During pregnancy, due to the effects of hormones, follicles are held in anagen [growth phase] longer, delaying telogen [resting phase]. Therefore, less daily shedding occurs.”
For postpartum hair loss, excessive shedding typically starts a few months after delivery, peaking around four months postpartum. This condition usually lasts a few months, with most parents seeing improvement by their baby's first birthday.
It can be overwhelming to know that, as a woman, you can't prevent postpartum hair loss, but you can manage it. We've compiled essential statistics on what to expect after pregnancy and expert tips on managing hair loss. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Top 10 Postpartum Hair Loss Statistics
Hair loss typically starts about three months after giving birth. [Source: 4]
Hair loss typically starts at 2.9 months, peaks at 5.1 months, and ends around 8.1 months. [Source: 3]
Lower prenatal cortisone and progesterone levels were linked to higher depression scores 12 weeks after delivery. [Source: 7]
In the UAE, reported rates of postpartum depression vary significantly, ranging from 12% to 33%. [Source: 8]
The Iranian Journal of Dermatology study found that 32.2% of participants experienced hair loss before pregnancy, 43.2% during pregnancy, and 68.4% after delivery. [Source: 4]
Typically, around 95% of hair follicles grow, but after pregnancy, about 60% shift to resting and shedding phases. [Source: 6]
Within three to six months after delivery, 13%–19% of women experience postpartum depression (PPD), a condition marked by difficulties in adapting to motherhood. [Source: 7]
Globally, postpartum depression affects an average of 17% of women, with prevalence ranging from 4% to 63.9%. [Source: 8]
Among those who experienced hair loss after delivery, 56 noticed it after one month, 101 after two months, 39 after three months, 11 after four months, and 18 after five months. [Source: 4]
Hair steroid levels (cortisol, cortisone, progesterone) were significantly lower in women with PPD compared to those without, both before and after delivery. [Source: 7]
Prevalence of Postpartum Hair Loss Statistics in Women
Becoming a new mom brings many changes, the most exciting being your baby's arrival. A woman's body undergoes numerous changes throughout pregnancy, birth, and the months after. In the third trimester, estrogen and progesterone levels rise, affecting the growth cycle and preventing hair from shedding.
A study in the International Journal of Women's Dermatology used questionnaires to survey women 10–18 months after delivery at two facilities. They found:
Of 331 responses (21.0%), 304 women (91.8%) experienced postpartum hair loss. [Source: 3]
Hair loss typically starts at 2.9 months, peaks at 5.1 months, and ends around 8.1 months. [Source: 3]
The adjusted odds ratio for postpartum hair loss in women who stopped breastfeeding between 6-12 months was 5.96 (95% CI [1.68, 21.09]), and for those who stopped after 12 months, it was 6.37 (95% CI [1.95, 20.76]), compared to those who stopped within six months postpartum. [Source: 3]
The study concluded that over 90% of women experienced hair loss after childbirth. [Source: 3]
Authors of the study, Hirose A. et al., further discovered: “Women with hair loss had an earlier time of delivery, a lower birth weight, a higher preterm labor rate, and longer-term breastfeeding. Logistical regression analyses revealed that longer-term breastfeeding and preterm labor were independent predictors of postpartum hair loss.” [Source: 3]
A study was conducted in 2016 at four dermatology clinics in Yazd, Iran. It included women aged 17 to 48 who had given birth in the previous six months and visited primary healthcare clinics. The average age of the participants was 29.29 years, with a standard deviation of 6.12 years. [Source: 4] They found:
In this study, 68.4% of participants experienced postpartum hair loss. [Source: 4]
Significant factors related to hair loss included anemia (P = 0.001), breastfeeding (P = 0.002), nocturnal feeding (P = 0.001), gestational diabetes (P = 0.019), a history of hypothyroidism (P = 0.001), and stress before and during delivery (P = 0.001 for both). [Source: 4]
Hair loss typically starts about three months after giving birth. [Source: 4]
The Iranian Journal of Dermatology study found that 32.2% of participants experienced hair loss before pregnancy, 43.2% during pregnancy, and 68.4% after delivery. [Source: 4]
Among those who experienced hair loss after delivery, 56 noticed it after one month, 101 after two months, 39 after three months, 11 after four months, and 18 after five months. [Source: 4]
Typically, around 95% of hair follicles grow, but after pregnancy, about 60% shift to resting and shedding phases. [Source: 6]
Hair loss after giving birth is persistent and affects most new moms. It can last up to eight months and starts a few months after giving birth. The role that nursing plays is interesting. Hair loss is more likely if you nurse for longer, especially if it lasts more than six months. Anemia, anxiety, and maternal diabetes are also significant factors. This means taking care of your health and reducing stress during and after pregnancy is very important. New moms undergoing these body changes need more help and resources. It's a lesson that care after giving birth is just as important as care before giving birth.
Postpartum Hair Loss and Mental Well-Being
Postpartum hair loss is a common issue after childbirth, often linked to various clinical and health factors.
Endocrine dysfunction, hormonal changes during and after pregnancy, iron deficiency from blood loss during labor, and shifts in hair growth phases are linked to postpartum hair loss. [Source: 4] Hair loss also affects a woman's mental state.
Dr Jessica Shepherd MD, MBA, FACOG, is a board certified OB-GYN and the former Chief Medical Officer for Verywell Health, former member of Verywell Health's Medical Expert Board and founder and CEO of Sanctum Med + Wellness, says: “Postpartum hair loss can take an emotional toll, especially given the changes and stresses after a baby is born. Patients unaware of the possibility of postpartum hair loss might find it shocking or worrisome. Unfortunately, many doctors shrug off female hair loss in general and don’t understand the emotional connection between a woman’s hair and her well-being. This is especially true about postpartum hair loss.”
Within three to six months after delivery, 13%–19% of women experience postpartum depression (PPD), a condition marked by difficulties in adapting to motherhood. [Source: 7]
A study in the Journal of Clinical Medicine examined the relationship between prenatal and postnatal hair steroid levels and PPD 12 weeks after delivery. They found that:
Hair steroid levels (cortisol, cortisone, progesterone) were significantly lower in women with PPD compared to those without, both before and after delivery. [Source: 7]
Lower prenatal cortisone and progesterone levels were linked to higher depression scores 12 weeks after delivery. [Source: 7]
Lower prenatal levels of cortisol and progesterone, higher levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and postnatal changes in these hormones accurately predicted PPD with 98% accuracy. [Source: 7]
Globally, postpartum depression affects an average of 17% of women, with prevalence ranging from 4% to 63.9%. [Source: 8]
In the Arab region, a review of 25 studies found that postpartum depression prevalence ranged from 15-25% in 12 studies, under 15% (as low as 7%) in 7 studies, and over 25% (up to 74%) in 6 studies. [Source: 8]
In the UAE, reported rates of postpartum depression vary significantly, ranging from 12% to 33%. [Source: 8]
A prospective cohort study recruited women from postpartum wards in hospitals across four UAE emirates. They completed questionnaires right after childbirth, and again at 3 and 6 months postpartum. [Source: 8] This is what they found:
A total of 457 women participated in the study, with 399 (87.3%) completing the 3-month questionnaire and 374 (81.2%) completing the 6-month questionnaire. [Source: 8]
Over half of the women (64.5%, n=295) had a university degree, and 61% (n=278) were unemployed. [Source: 8]
Concerning maternal and infant characteristics, 34.7% (159 women) reported pregnancy complications. Most were multiparous (77.2%, 353 women), had vaginal deliveries (59%, 270 women), and were either overweight or obese (50.1%, 229 women). [Source: 8]
Only 70% of newborns were breastfed within the first hour of birth (n=320). Among them, 51% were males (n=233), and 88.4% (n=404) weighed between 2500 and 4000 grams, with an average weight of 3.16 ± 1.48 kg. [Source: 8]
The prevalence of postpartum depression symptoms (EPDS > 12) over the 6-month period was 35% (160 out of 457). [Source: 8]
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is a measure of postnatal depression based on a questionnaire. If you score less than 10, there is no indication of depression. If you score between 10 and 12, you most likely have minor depressive symptomatology. If you score more than 12, you have high depressive symptomatology.
Nearly 28% of Arab women and those of Islamic faith had an EPDS score above 12, compared to women of other nationalities and religions. [Source: 8]
Women who found it difficult to manage their monthly family income, either sometimes (32.3%) or all the time (81.3%), had higher EPDS scores compared to those who found it easy (15.9%) or manageable (23%) (p < 0.001). [Source: 8]
Among those who received financial support from their family, 38.4% had an EPDS score greater than 12, compared to 19.2% of those who did not (p < 0.001). [Source: 8]
Women with husbands of Arab origin (28.7%; p = 0.03), who were unemployed (58.3%; p < 0.001), and had a high school diploma or less (p < 0.001) reported high EPDS levels > 12. [Source: 8]
None of the obstetric variables showed a significant association with EPDS scores, except for parity. Multiparous women had significantly higher EPDS scores (>12) compared to primiparous women (27.5% vs. 16.5%, p = 0.04). [Source: 8]
Husband support significantly reduced EPDS scores: 55.6% of women without husband support had EPDS > 12, compared to 24.3% with support (p = 0.02). [Source: 8]
35% of women experienced depression symptoms during the first 6 months after giving birth. [Source: 8]
The prevalence of postpartum depression in this study is higher than the global average of 17.7%. [Source: 8]
In a Swedish cross-sectional study of 888 mothers, Rosander et al. (2020) found that depression symptoms (EPDS ≥ 12) peaked at 9 and 18 months postpartum after initially decreasing from birth to 6 months postpartum. [Source: 8]
Hair loss after giving birth is caused by changes in hormones and a lack of iron, and it has an immense impact on the mental health of new moms. A lot of doctors don't realize how hair affects a woman's self-esteem on an emotional level, which makes the problem even worse. PPD, which is common in many places, often makes the problems of being a mother even worse. As shown in a study of women in the UAE who had depressed symptoms, having emotional support and being able to pay your bills on time are very important for handling PPD. The study shows how important support systems are for dealing with sadness, especially those that come from families. It's important to deal with both the physical and mental elements for complete postpartum care.
Statistics by Postpartum Hair Loss Treatments & Management
Doctors Ebrahimzadeh-Ardakani M et al. remarked: “To the best of our knowledge, there is no
definite treatment for TE, and it is a self-limited condition after which all lost hair will gradually be replaced.” [Source: 4]
Board-certified Dermatologist Dr Michelle Green agrees that “postpartum hair loss affects 40-50% of all pregnant individuals and cannot be prevented.” [Source: 5] However, there are ways to manage it.
If stress is causing hair loss, identifying and managing stress can help prevent and treat it. [Source: 4]
Postpartum hair loss impacts mothers' mental well-being and daily life. Understanding its causes and risk factors can help ease this challenge. [Source: 4]
Various treatments are available to help reduce postpartum hair loss symptoms, such as thinning, excessive shedding, and changes in hair texture. [Source: 5]
Some lifestyle changes include using volumizing shampoo and lightweight conditioners and avoiding heat-based hair products like hair dryers and irons. [Source: 5]
Dr. Green suggests autologous blood treatment using the patient's blood to strengthen hair follicles for thicker, healthier hair growth. [Source: 5]
Autologous blood treatments help promote new hair growth in alopecia patients by thickening existing hair follicles, improving blood flow, stimulating repair cells, and extending the growth phase. Dr. Shepherd agrees, saying, " PRP injections are a good avenue because the treatment does not impact moms who are breastfeeding.”
To reduce hair loss, avoid using heat-based styling tools like straighteners, blow dryers, or curlers that can cause hair breakage. Dr. Green also suggests avoiding tight hairstyles such as ponytails and braids that pull at your scalp. [Source: 5]
Dr William D. Yates, M.D., a hair replacement surgeon and hair loss expert in Chicago, agrees, saying: “During this time, treat your hair gently and use strengthening and conditioning products to help keep the hair soft and supple to prevent breakage. Changing your hairstyle to a shorter cut will also help it look thicker during the shedding and subsequent regrowth phase.”
While there are a few treatment options for postpartum hair loss, it is important not to prescribe medications during pregnancy or nursing.
Dr Bauman considers, “Nonchemical, breastfeeding-friendly therapy must support the mom’s body and mind, as well as not affect breast milk or the baby. Nutrition, self-care, feeling calm, [and] getting rest are all part of the equation. Taking a multitherapy and holistic approach may be preferred.”
At HAIR & SKIN, we recommend hair treatment using your own blood. This process isolates growth factors from your blood and injects them into the scalp, unlike mesotherapy which uses added components like hyaluronic acid or vitamins. This treatment promotes hair follicle growth, increasing hair density and strength. It is minimally invasive, requires no downtime, and is suitable for both men and women. It’s completely painless and safe.
Doctors’ Tips and Expert Advice for New Mothers
We already know becoming a new mom has challenges, especially for the body and mind. That’s why always having a doctor’s opinion and advice when anxiety and stress kick in always puts the new mom at ease, and if that does when anxiety and stress kick in. Ifrk, booking an immediate appointment with an expert is an alternative.
If you are not breastfeeding, Dr. Green might recommend other treatments for your hair loss, like topical minoxidil (Rogaine) to thicken your hair and promote new growth. [Source: 5]
Through simple hair care methods and lifestyle changes, there are several ways to minimize or hide the symptoms of postpartum hair loss:
Use volumizing shampoos with ingredients like biotin to strengthen hair follicles and make hair look fuller. [Source: 5] Dr Amy Roskin, M.D., and board-certified OB-GYN at Seven Starling, adds: “Volumizing shampoo can be a great option, as can avoiding heavy conditioners. It’s better to use products for fine hair since they will be less likely to weigh down hair.”
Avoid conditioning shampoos and intense conditioners, which can weigh hair down and accelerate hair loss. [Source: 5]
Opt for conditioners designed for fine hair, which are gentler and won't weigh down your hair. [Source: 5]
Visit a stylist to manage postpartum hair loss, especially around the hairline. [Source: 5]
Avoid middle parts and long bangs, which can highlight hair loss. Instead, try haircuts with bangs and layers to disguise thinning areas. [Source: 5]
Wearing curly hairstyles can also help hide hair loss better than straight styles. Accessories like headbands and headscarves help cover up thinning spots. [Source: 5]
“If your hair seems overall thinner after having a baby, it’s a good idea to check in with a dermatologist”, says Dr. Mary Lupo, a board-certified dermatologist and owner of the Lupo Center for Aesthetic and General Dermatology. They can investigate some other reasons for hair loss, including:
Vitamin D Levels: **"**If your vitamin D level is not optimal, hair loss can be more of an issue. The normal range starts at 30 ng/mL but you want your vitamin D level to be somewhere between 50 and 70 ng/mL,” says Dr Lupo.
Low Iron: “If you have heavy periods, also check your ferritin levels. If those levels aren’t where they should be, that can also contribute to hair loss”, says Dr. Lupo.
Thyroid Hormone: **“**Having too high or too low levels of thyroid hormone can also cause hair thinning, and having a baby can throw that out of whack”, says Dr. Lupo.
Scalp Health: **“**If you are prone to dandruff or flaking, you want to shampoo every day to clear out oil and dead skin cells that build up on your scalp and can suffocate the hair follicles”, says Dr. Lupo.
Nutritionally, since many women continue their prenatal vitamins in the months immediately following childbirth, Dr Bauman recommends: “Theanine and shatavari, which are herbs and stress adaptogens to help with stress hormones and relaxation, specifically for female physiology.”
Dr Shobha Sudeep, MBBS, DVD, a dermatologist and cosmetologist, adds: “New mothers should understand and be reassured that postpartum hair loss is temporary and hair will regrow naturally after the postpartum period. This reduces unnecessary stress and the use of potentially harmful products.”
So, what do we take away from this?
Dr. Danielle Wright-Terrell, an OBGYN, owner of the postpartum coaching platform Honey, and mom to a 1.5-year-old, says: “It’s easy to freak out when you start to see your hair falling out at an alarming rate, but in most cases, it’s just a part of the postpartum journey. Let’s just go ahead and normalize it—it’s going to happen. I tried my best to prevent it by taking the vitamins and doing the hair supplements, and I still couldn’t avoid it.”
If you still feel like you want to do something about your hair loss, our experts at HAIR & SKIN suggest booking a free analysis with them because there is no "one-size-fits-all" solution for hair loss, despite what shampoos or caffeine treatments promise. The first step before treatment should be a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
How long does postpartum hair loss last?
Postpartum hair loss is temporary, with hair volume usually improving as hormone and stress levels normalize. It often starts two to four months after delivery and can last up to six months.. [Source: 1]
How to prevent postpartum hair loss and improve recovery?
Vitamin and nutritional supplements should complement a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Regular exercise is also essential for a healthy lifestyle. [Source: 1]
What are the signs of postpartum hair loss?
The main sign is finding more loose hair than usual on your brush, pillow, or shower floor. You might also see more hair on your clothing. [Source: 2]
Can my hair loss affect my baby?
Postpartum hair loss is normal and won't affect your baby. However, shed hair can sometimes wrap around your baby's fingers, toes, or other body parts, causing a hair tourniquet. This rare condition can cause pain and restrict blood flow. [Source: 2]
Will my hair grow back after postpartum hair loss?
Yes, hair loss after childbirth is temporary. New hair will grow back once the old hair falls out. Some may find their hair is thinner than before pregnancy. [Source: 2]
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