Hair Loss During Pregnancy: Why It Happens and What You Can Do

Pregnancy is such an exciting journey, full of surprises (some good, some not-so-good). One thing I didn’t expect during my own pregnancy was the amount of hair I’d lose. I had always heard about the luscious “pregnancy glow” and thicker hair, so when I started noticing more strands on my brush and in the shower, I was surprised and honestly, a little worried.

If you’re in the same boat, don’t stress—it’s actually more common than you might think. Let’s talk about why hair loss happens during pregnancy and what you can do about it.

Why Does Hair loss During Pregnancy occur?

Hair usually grows in cycles:

Anagen Phase: Hair is actively growing.

Catagen Phase: Hair takes a break.

Telogen Phase: Hair rests and eventually sheds.

For many women, pregnancy hormones keep more hair in the growing phase, making it look fuller. But for others (like me), hair can start shedding, especially during certain trimesters. Here’s why:

1. Hormonal Shifts

The massive hormonal changes your body goes through can throw your hair growth cycle out of whack. If estrogen levels dip temporarily, more hairs can move into the shedding phase, leading to noticeable hair loss.

2. Nutrient Shortages

Let’s face it—your baby is stealing all the good stuff! If you’re not getting enough iron, biotin, or zinc, your hair might suffer. A lack of these nutrients can weaken hair and cause it to thin or fall out.

3. Stress (Yes, Even the Good Kind)

Pregnancy is stressful, no matter how much you enjoy it. From morning sickness to prepping for the baby’s arrival, the stress on your body can trigger a condition called telogen effluvium, where your hair sheds more than usual.

4. Underlying Health Conditions

Sometimes, hair loss is a sign of something else, like a thyroid imbalance or anemia—both common during pregnancy. If your hair loss feels extreme, it’s worth checking with your doctor.

What Can You Do About It?

The good news? Most pregnancy-related hair loss is temporary. But that doesn’t mean you just have to wait it out. Here are some tips that really helped me:

1. Eat for Your Hair

Your hair loves nutrients like iron, zinc, and biotin. Make sure you’re eating plenty of leafy greens, eggs, nuts, and lean proteins. If you’re unsure whether your diet is cutting it, talk to your doctor about pregnancy-safe supplements.

2. Be Kind to Your Scalp

Switch to a gentle shampoo and conditioner (I went sulfate-free, and it made a difference). Treat yourself to a scalp massage with coconut oil—it feels amazing and can help boost blood flow to your hair follicles.

3. Take Time to Relax

Easier said than done, right? But stress plays such a huge role in hair health. I found that even just 10 minutes of deep breathing or a prenatal yoga session worked wonders for both my mind and my hair.

4. Fake It Until It Grows Back

This was my secret weapon! When my hair felt thin, I turned to hair toppers. They’re like magic. You just clip them in, and suddenly you’ve got a full, natural-looking head of hair.

Why I Love TopUnique Hair

I discovered TopUnique Hair during my second trimester, and let me tell you—it was a lifesaver. Their toppers are made with 100% human hair, so they look completely natural. Plus, they’re lightweight and easy to wear (even when you’re dealing with pregnancy fatigue).

Here’s what I loved most about TopUnique Hair:

Customizable Options: They have so many colors and styles to choose from.

Comfort: I could wear mine all day without it feeling heavy.

Durability: These toppers are high-quality and last a long time with proper care.

Wearing a topper not only gave me confidence but also took the pressure off trying to “fix” my hair while my hormones settled down.

When to Call Your Doctor

If your hair loss feels excessive—like you’re losing clumps or seeing bald spots—it’s worth talking to your healthcare provider. They can check for underlying issues like thyroid problems or low iron levels and help you get the right treatment.

My Takeaway

Pregnancy is full of surprises, and hair loss was one I didn’t see coming. But after some trial and error, I realized it’s just a phase—and there are plenty of ways to manage it.

If you’re dealing with hair loss during pregnancy, focus on nourishing your body, reducing stress, and don’t hesitate to try a hair topper like the ones from TopUnique Hair. It’s okay to lean on a little extra help to feel like yourself again.

Remember, you’re growing a tiny human—and that’s way more impressive than a perfect hair day.