Hair fall after stress, illness or childbirth
A big event can show up in your hairbrush months later. Here is what published sources say about why, and how long it tends to last.
A shock to the body can push many growing hairs into the resting phase at the same time. This is called telogen effluvium.1
Common triggers
The American Academy of Dermatology lists these as common triggers of excessive shedding:2
- Losing a lot of weight, about 9 kg (20 pounds) or more
- Giving birth
- Experiencing a lot of stress
- Having a high fever
- Having an operation
- Recovering from an illness
- Stopping birth control pills
DermNet adds that diet changes such as iron deficiency, some medications and thyroid problems can also be triggers.1
Why it appears later
Increased hair fall usually starts two to four months after the trigger.1 New mothers, for example, often notice it about two months after giving birth.2
How long it lasts
In most cases, hair fall lessens and returns to normal over six to nine months, though recovery may be incomplete for some people.1
When to talk to a doctor
If you are worried about your hair loss, the NHS advises seeing a GP, and telling them if it is affecting your wellbeing.3
Sources
- DermNet. Telogen effluvium. accessed 27 Oct 2026
- American Academy of Dermatology. Do you have hair loss or hair shedding?. accessed 27 Oct 2026
- NHS. Hair loss, Page last reviewed 24 January 2024. accessed 27 Oct 2026
Educational content. Not medical advice.