Pregnancy: Hair Changes

Topic Overview

During pregnancy, hormonal changes can affect how your hair looks and feels.

  • Hair loss slows down considerably, and hair growth can increase. You may notice that your head of hair is thicker and healthier-looking than usual. But some women find that their hair is more limp and lifeless during pregnancy.
  • It is normal during pregnancy to grow hair on other parts of your body, such as your abdomen, face, or back.

After pregnancy, your hair's growth cycle returns to normal. Hair that would normally have been shed during the last few months is now ready to die and be replaced. So don't be surprised if you lose more hair than normal during the first year after childbirth.

Related Information

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerSarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerKirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last RevisedJuly 23, 2012
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: July 23, 2012
Medical Review: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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