What Happens To Your Hair During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy can be equal parts exciting, stressful, and downright scary. For many people, it marks the beginning of a new chapter and, possibly, a whole new lifestyle. What's more, it comes with a lot of physical changes — some expected and some a little more surprising. Obviously, we're all conditioned to recognize signs like a growing baby bump and that mysterious pregnancy glow, but did you know that pregnancy can even impact the look and feel of your hair?

To learn more about the unexpected relationship between pregnancy and hair health, Glam spoke exclusively to trichologist Penny James, IAT, IOT. As a lauded trichologist — someone who specializes in the study of the hair and scalp — James often shares pro haircare tips and scientific info on her Instagram and with clients at the Penny James Trichology Center. This expertise also means she was able to shed light on the changes your hair might undergo while you're expecting that little bundle of joy.

One of our biggest takeaways is that pregnancy hair isn't a monolith. We often hear that no two pregnancies are alike — some people find themselves craving peanut butter during pregnancy, while others are obsessed with eggs, sweets, or even pickles, for instance — and you'll have a unique hair health experience as you traverse your 40 weeks, too. "Every person will experience something different regarding their hair while pregnant," James tells us. Here's how else you should expect your hair to change.

Many, but not all, people report an uptick in hair thickness. "Due to hormonal changes, your hair might look outstanding while you are pregnant. [A] full shiny mane of hair!" Penny James exclusively tells Glam, explaining that pregnancy hormones essentially trick your hair into a prolonged growth cycle that reduces shedding. "Studies have shown that while you are pregnant, 95% of the hair is in the growing stage (anagen)," the trichologist explains, adding that this is especially typical in the second and third trimesters.

But don't worry if this doesn't sound like your situation. James tells Glam that you could see the opposite effect: "In some cases, it may look and feel different from how your hair usually looks — less full, with a different texture." This could be tied to a recent drop in estrogen, such as if you stopped birth control just before conception. However, it could also indicate a potential hormone imbalance. To err on the side of caution, report any hair thinning to your OBGYN.

Want to keep your hair lustrous throughout your pregnancy? Whether you're dealing with extra-thick or extra-thin locks, it's probably best to keep things simple — starting with supplements. "Always check with your OBGYN about what prenatal vitamins are best for you," Penny James exclusively tells Glam. After all, some supplements, like vitamin A, can do more harm than good during pregnancy. Fortunately, there's another way to achieve balanced nutrition for both your hair and your baby: As James suggests, "Maintain a healthy diet."

But what about your haircare routine? Is it important to ditch certain products during pregnancy? Safety-wise, over-the-counter washing and styling products are probably fine. Just be careful of any prescription treatments, such as dandruff shampoos. You may also want to put a temporary hold on hair dye or chemical straightening, as harmful compounds like formaldehyde could potentially be absorbed through your scalp.

As for daily care, James says that it's perfectly acceptable to "change up your shampoo and conditioner ... for your new, thicker, fuller hair." By the same token, delicate strands can be given a little extra TLC during this period. "If your hair texture has become thinner, use a gentle shampoo and conditioner," suggests James. Most importantly, keep things in perspective. Remember: No matter what your hair does during pregnancy, the situation is only temporary. "The key is not to worry," says James. "Your hair will stabilize within three months of giving birth when your hormone levels normalize again."

What goes up must come down, and many shifts during pregnancy must reset after giving birth. This is why you might run into a fourth-trimester phenomenon called postpartum hair loss (aka postpartum bangs). ‌"Hair is very sensitive to hormonal imbalances," Penny James exclusively tells Glam, and this sensitivity can cause a startling wave of hair loss after delivery. But don't fret — James explains that this is all part of the process: "The hormones involved with the hair shedding after birth are estrogens and prolactin. Along with estrogen and progesterone, these get depleted, and our hair and body can be greatly affected." Specifically, James states that after about a week postpartum, "the hair may have uniform hair shedding."

That's right: On top of all the other stresses of acclimating to a newborn, you may also find yourself constantly decluttering your hairbrush or even tugging out hair in the shower. "It is perfectly normal to lose more than 100 hairs a day after having a baby," says James, reassuring us that "this will correct itself within three months." Still, it's important to keep an ongoing eye on your hair health and ensure you're fitting in some self-care. "It's very overwhelming taking care of a new baby. Being over-tired and not caring about your diet can lead to hair loss called telogen effluvium," James reveals.  

Ultimately, it sounds easier said than done, but try to occasionally prioritize your own needs amidst the whirlwind of parenthood. As James so nicely put it, "Do not forget to give yourself some love."