Can post-partum hair loss push you into depression?

During pregnancy, women go through many physical and emotional changes due to hormones and various other reasons, and those changes continue after childbirth. What often changes is the care and attention that women receive during pregnancy shift to the baby once they’re born, leaving new mamas alone.
We all know how challenging it can be to deal with post-pregnancy weight, but there’s another problem many women face: post-partum hair loss. Just as new moms are adjusting to their new bodies, hair loss can become an added struggle, affecting their mental health along the way.
Even celebrities like Anushka Sharma have dealt with it. After having her daughter Vamika, the actor wrote on Instagram, “When post-baby hair fall makes you appreciate a good haircut even more.” Kareena Kapoor Khan also suffered extensive hair loss after having her son Taimur Ali Khan.
If you’re a new mom reading this and thinking, ‘I know exactly how that feels’, experts are here to guide you.
“Post-partum hair fall is the shedding of hair that occurs after giving birth, which is called telogen effluvium. It is a temporary condition caused by hormonal changes after delivery,” Dr Chinjitha T Davis, associate consultant, dermatology, Manipal Hospital, Goa, tells India Today.
The doctor adds that this type of hair loss is usually sudden and occurs three months after childbirth.
The condition may seem alarming due to excessive shedding (more than 100-150 hair strands per day) compared to regular hair loss (100 strands per day), but it typically reverses within 6 to 12 months.
Meanwhile, Dr Sandhya Rani, senior consultant, obstetrics and gynaecology, Aster Women and Children Hospital, Bengaluru, explains that high levels of estrogen during pregnancy contribute to faster hair growth, resulting in thicker and denser hair.
After delivery, however, estrogen levels decrease, leading to the shedding of the extra hair retained during pregnancy. Uncontrolled thyroid issues may also add to this problem.
Post-partum hair fall is different from other hair loss like androgenetic alopecia or male-pattern baldness, which stem from genetic factors, hormonal imbalances, or ageing. “This type affects males and females differently, depending on their genes and other health factors,” says Dr Rani.
It’s important to note that post-partum hair loss is temporary and resolves on its own as hormones stabilise after pregnancy. However, regular hair loss types may require medical treatment or intervention to suppress or reverse the condition.
Further, experts share that about 40-80 per cent of women experience post-partum hair loss, but the severity can vary from person to person.
Dr Sravya C Tipirneni, consultant dermatologist, cosmetologist, and trichologist at Manipal Hospitals in Bangalore, mentions that over time, the hair follicles recover and new hair growth begins.
When estrogen levels reduce and return to their pre-pregnancy state, normal hair growth resumes.

Post-partum hair loss is common and reversible (Photo: Getty Images)

For some new mothers, dealing with post-partum hair loss can lead to emotional distress.
“After childbirth, many women face challenges with body image, fatigue, and adjusting to their new role as a mother. Sudden and visible hair loss can add to this burden, potentially contributing to feelings of anxiety, low self-esteem, or even depression,” says Dr Davis.
Dr Nikhil Nayar, psychiatrist at Sharda Hospital, NCR, also mentions that post-partum hair loss increases a new mother’s risk of depression and other mental health problems as it can exacerbate post-partum emotional difficulties by damaging a woman’s confidence and shifting her perception of herself.
“Physically and psychologically, new moms frequently experience pressure to bounce back to their pre-pregnancy selves as soon as possible. Hair loss can make women feel like they have less control over their bodies, adding to the stress of adjusting to motherhood,” he adds.
Dr Rani agrees, “Post-partum hair loss can indeed contribute to depression and anxiety.” The physical and emotional changes that come with giving birth can be overwhelming, and noticeable hair loss only makes things worse.
“It’s not uncommon for women to experience depression alongside other forms of emotional disturbance after maternity,” she adds.

Hair loss after delivery can impact your mental health (Photo: Getty Images)

Women may end up feeling self-conscious or unattractive, which, when combined with hormonal fluctuations, sleep deprivation, and the physical recovery from childbirth, can create a perfect storm for mental health issues. Additionally, women experiencing all this might feel isolated or misunderstood by others who may not fully grasp the emotional impact of hair loss. The loneliness alone could significantly contribute to perinatal mood disorders.
It’s essential for new moms to recognise that post-partum hair loss is a natural process and does not reflect poor health or care.
Experts suggest focusing on self-care and making lifestyle adjustments during this time.
And, just like Anushka Sharma, you could also consider changing your hairstyle. A shorter haircut can make thinning hair less noticeable and easier to manage.
“Since post-partum hair loss often occurs alongside other emotional and physical changes, managing it mentally can be difficult,” says Dr Nayar.
By embracing hair loss as a natural part of the body’s healing process, new moms can overcome their worries by adopting a more positive mindset.
According to Dr Tipirneni, it’s important to accept that the condition is temporary. “Remind yourself that this is a normal part of the post-partum period, and your hair will eventually grow back,” she advises.
While dealing with post-partum hair loss, it’s also crucial to challenge negative thoughts about your appearance with positive affirmations.
Remember, post-partum hair loss is a common experience, and you should be kind to yourself. Don’t hesitate to seek support as a supportive environment can make this phase easier. Also, understand that the emotions you’re feeling are normal, and acknowledging your fear of losing your hair is an important step in managing it.