Postpartum Hair Loss: Normal Shedding vs. Excessive (HolistCode Self-Check)

Compare current shedding to pre-pregnancy: normal is ~100 hairs/day, uniform thinning without bald spots. Excessive: visible scalp, clumps in brush, or sudden increase after initial postpartum drop.

Note when shedding peaked (usually 3-4 months postpartum) and duration. Normal: tapers by 6-12 months. Red flags: no improvement after 6 months, bald patches, or loss starting before 3 months after birth.

Check for: unusual fatigue (kidney/energy drain), brittle nails (blood deficiency sign), feeling cold (uterine cold/stagnation), or dry skin (blood/nutrient shortage). These suggest internal factors needing TCM.

Track if shedding worsens with: skipped meals (spleen deficiency), poor sleep (liver fire/heart heat), or stress (stagnant qi). Note new medications or thyroid symptoms (swelling, weight changes).

If hair loss exceeds 6 months, shows bald spots, or pairs with fatigue/thyroid issues: consult a TCM for diagnosis (pulse/tongue) and a doctor for blood tests. For mild cases: try warming scalp massages and iron-rich foods immediately.