Prevalence of postpartum hair loss and its impact on psychological symptoms

Abstract

Postpartum hair loss is commonly regarded as a physiological condition caused by hormonal fluctuations, particularly the decline in estrogen levels after childbirth. However, few studies have explored its prevalence or its psychological effects. We conducted a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study to investigate the prevalence of postpartum hair loss and its association with psychological symptoms. Of the respondents, 91.8% reported experiencing some degree of hair loss, and 73.1% of them felt anxiety or stress about the condition. The average times for the start, peak, and end of hair loss were 2.9, 5.1, and 8.1 months postpartum, respectively. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that a longer duration of breastfeeding was significantly associated with postpartum hair loss, suggesting a possible link to prolonged estrogen deficiency. Furthermore, a greater amount of postpartum hair loss, primiparity, and higher Athens Insomnia Scale scores were predictors of Generalized Anxiety Disorder 2-item anxiety. Notably, women with very much postpartum hair loss had significantly higher odds of anxiety (OR 4.47, 95% CI : 1.34-14.93) compared to those with no postpartum hair loss. These findings suggest that postpartum hair loss is highly prevalent and may be an important factor contributing to maternal psychological distress.