Understanding Placenta Encapsulation: What You Should Know

When it comes to childbirth and parenting, I firmly believe in a “do what works for you” philosophy. Whether you prefer a tranquil water birth with candles or want an epidural at the first sign of labor, that’s your choice. Whether you choose breastfeeding or formula feeding, both are valid options.

However, I also advocate for evidence-based decision-making in parenting. I embraced many holistic practices when my kids were young, opting for natural childbirth, extended breastfeeding, and baby-wearing. Yet, in the realm of “natural parenting,” some practices lack scientific support and are often shrouded in myths.

One such practice is placenta consumption. I first heard about this trend when my children were small. The idea was that consuming your placenta could enhance mood, boost energy levels, and speed up postpartum recovery. Sounds great, right? Unfortunately, I soon realized that there is no substantial evidence to support these claims, and some aspects can even pose health risks.

How Is the Placenta Consumed?

Most individuals interested in consuming their placenta do not simply eat it raw. About 70-80% of parents choose to have their placenta dehydrated and encapsulated into pill form. While this might sound more palatable than eating the organ directly, the lack of regulation surrounding the encapsulation process raises concerns. Often, this is handled by birth workers or doulas, but there is no governing body ensuring the preparation is done in a sterile environment.

Given that you’re consuming a biological organ, ensuring it is free from bacteria is crucial. This is one reason why the CDC advises against consuming your placenta, even after it has been encapsulated. They state, “No standards exist for processing placenta for consumption,” adding that the encapsulation process does not guarantee the elimination of infectious pathogens.

What Are the Claimed Benefits?

A simple online search for “placenta encapsulation” will yield numerous articles touting its benefits, often featuring celebrity endorsements. Advocates claim that placenta consumption can help mitigate the challenges of postpartum life, including increased energy, reduced risk of depression, and improved lactation. It is said to boost iron levels and balance hormones, essentially transforming you into a powerful postpartum goddess.

Is There Any Scientific Support?

The unfortunate truth is that there is no scientific backing for these claims. Studies have consistently shown no significant benefits to consuming placenta. For instance, research published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada examined individuals with a history of mood disorders to see if consuming placenta could alleviate depression. The conclusion? There was no evidence that placenta consumption improved mood, energy, lactation, or vitamin B12 levels.

Another randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found no increase in iron levels among participants who took placenta pills. Additional research has also failed to show any benefits regarding maternal mood, bonding with the baby, or fatigue.

Are There Risks Associated with Consuming Placenta?

In addition to the lack of proven benefits, there are serious concerns about contamination in placenta pills. The CDC documented a case where a newborn was hospitalized with group B strep after the mother ingested contaminated placenta pills. Studies have also detected heavy metals like lead and arsenic in some placenta capsules, posing potential risks to infants.

Organizations such as the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the CDC recommend against placenta consumption. ACOG states, “We found that there is no scientific evidence of any clinical benefit of placentophagy among humans,” and further advises that physicians should discourage this practice due to its potential harm.

Should You Encapsulate Your Placenta?

In summary, the evidence suggests minimal benefits and some significant risks associated with placenta consumption. After reviewing the facts, many individuals might opt against encapsulating and consuming their placenta. However, personal experiences vary, and some may feel the potential rewards outweigh the risks. If you lean toward trying it, consult your healthcare provider to understand your specific health risks and any warning signs to monitor.

For more insights on pregnancy and home insemination, check out this informative article or visit Make a Mom for expert advice. The NIH also offers valuable resources on pregnancy, available here.

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In conclusion, while the idea of consuming your placenta may seem appealing to some, the lack of scientific backing and potential health risks make it a decision worth careful consideration.