Why Does Hair Loss Happen During Breastfeeding?
Chose Your Topic
Why Does Hair Loss Happen During Breastfeeding?
For many new mothers, hair loss during breastfeeding comes as a surprise. Pregnancy ends, life slowly finds a new rhythm, and then one morning you notice more hair than usual on your pillow or in the shower. It can be unsettling, especially when you are already tired and adjusting to a newborn.
At Lygos Clinic, we often remind mothers that this type of hair loss is far more common than people think. In most cases, it’s not a sign of damage or a long-term problem. It’s simply the body finding its balance again.
The Hormone Drop After Pregnancy
During pregnancy, estrogen levels stay high. This hormone keeps hair in its growing phase longer, which is why many women feel their hair looks thicker and healthier while pregnant.
After childbirth, estrogen levels fall quite quickly. When that happens, many hair follicles enter the shedding phase at the same time. This sudden shift leads to noticeable hair loss, usually starting a few months after delivery.
Breastfeeding itself doesn’t cause hair loss, but it can slow down the return to hormonal balance for some women. This makes the shedding phase feel more intense or longer than expected.
Tired Body, Busy Mind
Let’s be honest, the postpartum period is exhausting. Sleep becomes irregular, stress levels rise, and the body is still recovering from birth. All of these factors can affect hair growth.
When stress hormones stay high, the hair cycle can be disrupted. Combined with breastfeeding demands, this can make hair appear thinner, weaker, or slower to grow back.
Nutrition Matters More Than Ever
Breastfeeding requires energy and nutrients. If the body doesn’t get enough support, it will focus on what’s essential, producing milk, and hair growth may take a back seat.
Low iron levels are very common after childbirth, especially if there was blood loss during delivery. Vitamin D, B12, zinc, and biotin deficiencies can also contribute to increased shedding and weaker strands.
Is This Hair Loss Permanent?
In most cases, no. Breastfeeding-related hair loss is temporary. The hair follicles are still healthy, they’re just responding to changes in hormones and nutrition.
As the body adjusts, the hair growth cycle slowly returns to normal. Many women notice small baby hairs growing around the hairline or parting area, which is a good sign of regrowth.
How to Support Hair During Breastfeeding
This isn’t the time for harsh treatments or drastic changes. Gentle care goes a long way. Avoid tight hairstyles, heavy heat styling, or aggressive brushing.
Focus on nourishing your body. Protein-rich meals, iron-containing foods, healthy fats, and enough water help support hair growth from within. Even small lifestyle changes can make a difference over time.
At Lygos Clinic, we always suggest patience and supportive care during breastfeeding rather than rushing into strong treatments.
When Should You Get Professional Advice?
If hair loss feels excessive, lasts longer than a year, or comes with symptoms like fatigue or scalp discomfort, it’s a good idea to seek professional advice.
At Lygos Clinic, we offer personalized evaluations to help new mothers understand what’s happening and feel reassured during this phase.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A balanced diet, gentle hair care, and reducing stress help most breastfeeding mothers manage hair loss.
Proper nutrition and time usually lead to natural regrowth without medical intervention.
Hair shedding often lasts between 3 and 6 months after childbirth.
In some cases, mild shedding can continue up to a year before gradually slowing down.
Iron deficiency is the most common cause, followed by vitamin D and vitamin B12 deficiencies.
Blood tests can help identify low levels and guide safe supplementation.
Breast milk does not prevent or treat hair loss.
Hair shedding during breastfeeding is caused by internal hormonal changes, not by topical or dietary use of breast milk.
Postnatal multivitamins, iron, vitamin D, and B12 may be recommended under medical supervision.
Supplements should always be approved by a healthcare provider during breastfeeding.
