Placenta encapsulation has been growing in popularity among new moms, and for good reason. This practice, rooted in tradition and supported by many anecdotal experiences, involves preparing the placenta (usually by drying and encapsulating it) for consumption after birth. While scientific research on the benefits is still emerging, many women report positive effects that make it worth considering. Check out this testimonial from one of our clients who was initially appalled by the idea.
What is the use for Placenta Postpartum?
The placenta has been traditionally used in various cultures for postpartum recovery, with modern practices focusing primarily on placenta encapsulation for potential benefits. Proponents claim that consuming the placenta may help balance hormones, increase milk production, and reduce the risk of postpartum depression, though scientific evidence remains limited. The organ contains iron, hormones, and proteins that some believe can support healing and energy levels during the early weeks after birth. Wanting to learn more? Check out this video by Evidence Based Birth
What is Placenta Encapsulation?
Placenta encapsulation is a specialized process that transforms the maternal placenta into consumable capsules following birth. The procedure typically involves thoroughly cleaning the placenta, gently steaming it with traditional herbs (in the TCM method) or processing it raw, dehydrating it at a controlled temperature, and then grinding it into a fine powder that is placed into supplement capsules. This process is usually completed within 24-72 hours after birth to ensure optimal preservation of nutrients and hormones. How2Mom specializes in Placenta Encapsulation and is able to assist (regardless if we are your doula!). Check out our services here: Placenta Encapsulation
5 Reasons to Consume Your Placenta Postpartum
1. Placenta Encapsulation Helps Replenish Nutrients Lost During Birth
Childbirth can deplete your body of vital nutrients like iron, which is essential for energy and recovery. The placenta is rich in iron, B vitamins, and other minerals your body needs to heal after birth. Consuming your placenta may help restore these nutrients more quickly, supporting a smoother postpartum recovery.
2. Placenta Encapsulation May Reduce Postpartum Bleeding
Some women report that consuming their placenta helps reduce postpartum bleeding. This is thought to be linked to the hormones in the placenta, which may help the uterus contract and return to its pre-pregnancy state faster.
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3. Placenta Encapsulation Can Support Hormonal Balance
The placenta is packed with hormones like oxytocin and progesterone, which play a crucial role in regulating mood, bonding with your baby, and milk production. After giving birth, your body experiences a rapid drop in these hormones, which can sometimes contribute to postpartum depression or baby blues. Consuming your placenta may help balance these hormone levels and promote emotional well-being.
4. Placenta Encapsulation May Boost Milk Supply
Many new moms are concerned about establishing a healthy milk supply. Some women who consume their placenta report increased milk production, potentially due to the hormones and nutrients it contains. While this isn’t a guarantee, it’s a common reason moms choose placenta encapsulation.
5. Placenta Encapsulation is a Natural Way to Honor Your Birth Journey
For many women, consuming their placenta is a deeply personal and symbolic act. It can feel empowering to use a part of your body to nourish and support your recovery. It’s also a way to honor the placenta’s role in sustaining your baby throughout pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Question about Placenta Encapsulation
Does placenta encapsulation help with postpartum depression?
Placenta encapsulation has been suggested by some to help with postpartum recovery, including reducing the risk of postpartum depression (PPD), though the scientific evidence supporting this is limited. Proponents claim that the hormones, iron, and other nutrients in the placenta may help balance the body’s systems after childbirth, potentially easing symptoms of PPD.
How much do placenta pills cost?
The cost of placenta encapsulation can vary depending on where you live and the service provider, but on average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $500 for the entire process.
At How2Mom, we offer Placenta Encapsulation Services designed to support your physical and emotional well-being during the postpartum period. Our professional encapsulation process is safe, clean, and performed with the utmost care to ensure you get the most benefit from this natural recovery aid.
Plus, we value our clients, and as a special offering, our birth doula clients receive a significant discount when adding placenta encapsulation to their package!
For more information on how we can support your postpartum journey, check out our Placenta Encapsulation Services page.
Is placenta encapsulation worth it?
The decision to encapsulate your placenta is deeply personal, and many new mothers are curious about whether it’s truly worth the investment. While the scientific research on its effectiveness is still emerging, many women report significant benefits. These include increased energy levels, faster postpartum recovery, improved mood, and relief from symptoms of postpartum depression. Placenta encapsulation may also provide a boost of nutrients like iron and other hormones that can help balance your body’s systems after childbirth.
At How2Mom, we’ve seen firsthand how placenta encapsulation can support new mothers during their postpartum journey. Our clients consistently share positive feedback, saying it helps them feel more grounded and energized during the sometimes challenging early weeks with a newborn.
What are some cons in consuming your placenta?
As with any wellness practice, there are some considerations when it comes to placenta encapsulation. However, with research still emerging, it’s hard to definitively say there are significant cons to the process. Much of the information available is based on anecdotal evidence, and while many mothers report positive outcomes, the scientific studies supporting these claims are still developing.
Are there other uses for placentas after birth?
In addition to placenta encapsulation, there are several other creative ways to use your placenta. Some women opt for placenta tinctures, where the placenta is soaked in alcohol to create a natural remedy that may help with hormone balancing and energy. Others create placenta artwork, preserving the placenta in a meaningful, artistic way to remember their birth experience.
On a more clinical note, stem cell research is exploring the potential of placental stem cells for regenerative medicine, with possible applications in treating diseases or injuries. And in a surprising twist, some police forces use placental tissue to train scent detection dogs, taking advantage of its unique odor to sharpen their canine partners’ skills.
Whether for personal, artistic, or scientific purposes, the placenta offers a variety of intriguing uses beyond postpartum care.
How to Safely Consume Your Placenta
The most common method is placenta encapsulation, where your placenta is steamed, dehydrated, and ground into powder, then placed in capsules for easy consumption. To learn more about the specifics check out, “What is Placenta Encapsulation?”
While consuming your placenta may not be for everyone, many moms who try it find it a valuable part of their postpartum recovery. If you’re considering placenta encapsulation, let’s chat and get you hooked up with one of our trusted and trained placenta encapsulators.
Interested in consuming your placenta postpartum?
Reach out to How2Mom today to learn more and connect with one of our trained placenta encapsulators. We’ve linked our services – PLACENTA ENCAPSULATION
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