Understanding Postpartum Hair Loss In Traditional Chinese Medicine
It’s one of the most common concerns new mothers bring up — “Why is my hair falling out after having a baby?”
While many are told this is a “normal” postpartum symptom, in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), hair loss after giving birth is a sign of deeper depletion — not just a harmless side effect of hormone shifts.
Here’s what’s really happening beneath the surface, and how we can support your body to recover from the inside out.
Blood & Qi Loss During Birth:
Childbirth is a major feat — energetically and physically. During pregnancy, your body devotes an enormous amount of Blood and Qi (vital life force) to nourish the baby. Then, during labor and delivery, even more is lost.
In TCM, hair is considered an extension of the Blood. So when your Blood becomes deficient after birth — especially if your recovery is rushed or your nutrition is lacking — your hair pays the price. Thinning, shedding, and lack of regrowth are all signs your body needs support rebuilding Blood and Qi.
Hormonal Shifts & Depleted Kidney Essence:
In Western terms, postpartum hair loss is often chalked up to changing hormones. In Chinese medicine, this ties back to Kidney Jing (Essence) — the deep, foundational energy stored in the Kidneys that governs fertility, hormones, and hair health.
Childbirth taps deeply into this reserve. If your Kidney Jing becomes too depleted, you may experience hormonal imbalances, fatigue, anxiety, and, yes — hair loss.
Weak Spleen Qi & Poor Nutrient Absorption:
If you’ve been skipping meals, eating on the go, or relying on cold, processed foods postpartum, your Spleen Qi may be struggling. The Spleen’s job is to extract nutrients from food and convert them into Blood and usable energy.
A weak Spleen means you’re not absorbing nutrients well — which makes it harder for your body to rebuild what was lost during pregnancy and delivery. Without strong Spleen Qi, even the most nutritious meals may not fully nourish your body or support healthy hair growth.
Emotional Stress & Liver Qi Stagnation:
Motherhood is beautiful — and intense. Lack of sleep, the mental load, and emotional ups and downs can create Liver Qi stagnation.
The Liver governs the smooth flow of energy and Blood. When it’s stuck or sluggish, it can show up as mood swings, hormonal disruption, and hair loss. You might feel irritable, overwhelmed, or simply “off,” and your hair may be reflecting that internal imbalance.
How We Support This with TCM Formulas
Our formulas Relentless and Reset are designed to replenish what’s been lost and help your body regain stability, energy, and resilience.
✴️ Relentless
- Strengthens the Spleen, improving digestion and nutrient absorption
- Encourages Blood and Qi rebuilding
- Supports warm, nourishing circulation
- Clears Liver Qi stagnation to improve mood and flow
✴️ Reset
- Nourishes Kidney Jing to replenish your essence
- Gently supports hormone balance post-birth
- Strengthens the Kidney–Liver–Spleen axis for long-term recovery
- Helps anchor energy to reduce stress and promote hair regrowth
Final Thoughts: Hair Loss Isn’t “Just Hormones”
Hair loss after birth is a message — a sign your body is asking for more nourishment, deeper rest, and time to recover.
You created life. Now it’s time to restore yours.
With support from Traditional Chinese Medicine and whole-body formulas like Relentless and Reset, you can rebuild from within — and your hair will follow.
