Postpartum Hair Fall (Hair Loss after Pregnancy / Postpartum Alopecia)

What is Postpartum Hair Fall (Hair Loss after Pregnancy / Postpartum Alopecia)

Many women experience excessive hair shedding after childbirth. This usually starts around 2–4 months after delivery and can last up to a year. It happens due to hormonal shifts, especially the drop in estrogen levels after pregnancy. While it is usually temporary, in some women, hair growth does not recover well without support.

Causes

  • Hormonal changes – Sudden drop in estrogen and progesterone after delivery
  • Nutritional deficiencies – Iron, calcium, zinc, Vitamin D, B12 deficiency common after pregnancy
  • Stress and fatigue – Emotional and physical strain of motherhood
  • Lactation demands – Extra nutritional requirement while breastfeeding
  • Postpartum thyroid issues – Sometimes undiagnosed hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism contributes

Symptoms

  • Sudden and noticeable hair shedding (especially while combing or washing)
  • Thinning of hair, particularly in the frontal scalp and crown
  • Hair feels dry, weak, and lifeless
  • In severe cases, patches of visible thinning may appear

Conventional Management:

  • Reassurance (usually self-limiting)
  • Nutritional supplements (iron, B-complex, Vitamin D, calcium, omega-3)
  • Gentle hair care (avoid harsh shampoos and excessive styling)

Homeopathic Perspective

Homeopathy considers postpartum hair fall as a result of internal imbalance due to childbirth, lactation, and stress. Remedies help to:

  • Restore hormonal balance naturally
  • Rebuild nutritional reserves
  • Strengthen hair roots and improve hair density
  • Support overall vitality and recovery after delivery

Common Homeopathic Medicines:

  • Sepia – Hair fall after childbirth, with hormonal imbalance, irritability, or exhaustion.
  • Natrum Muriaticum – Postpartum hair fall with anemia, sadness, or history of grief.
  • Phosphoric Acid – Weakness and hair fall after excessive nursing or prolonged fatigue.
  • Calcarea Phosphorica – Hair loss due to nutritional deficiencies after delivery.
  • Lycopodium – Hair thinning with digestive weakness and loss of confidence.

(Medicine choice is individualized depending on the mother’s constitution and symptoms.)

Precautions & Lifestyle

  • Take iron and protein-rich diet – leafy greens, pulses, nuts, seeds, dairy, and eggs
  • Stay hydrated and rest adequately (short naps help new mothers)
  • Gentle oil massage with natural oils (coconut, almond, or castor oil)
  • Avoid harsh chemicals, dyes, and excessive heat styling
  • Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing to reduce stress
  • Regular homeopathic consultation ensures faster recovery

Homeopathy helps women recover from postpartum hair fall by treating root causes, balancing hormones, and restoring strength, ensuring healthier, thicker hair growth.