When it comes to childbirth and parenting, my philosophy is simple: do what feels right for you. Whether you want to have a serene water birth surrounded by calming scents or prefer an epidural at the first sign of labor, it’s all good! Breastfeeding? Absolutely! Formula? That’s great too!
That said, I’m also a firm believer in making choices based on solid evidence. I leaned heavily into natural parenting myself, opting for natural childbirth and extended breastfeeding. However, I quickly learned that not all so-called “natural” practices are well-supported by research. One such practice is the consumption of one’s placenta—a trend I noticed when my kids were younger. The idea was that eating your placenta could boost your mood, increase energy levels, and aid postpartum recovery. Sounds appealing, right?
But here’s the catch: there’s no scientific evidence to support these claims, and in fact, consuming your placenta can pose serious health risks.
How is the Placenta Consumed?
Most people interested in placenta consumption don’t just take a bite out of it. About 70-80% of those who choose to do so have their placenta dehydrated and put into capsules for easy swallowing. It sounds a bit more palatable, but there’s a significant issue: there are no standardized practices for how placenta encapsulation is done. Often, it’s handled by birth workers or doulas, and there’s no regulatory oversight to guarantee that the encapsulation occurs in a sterile environment.
After all, we’re talking about an organ that was once living (and is now rotting), so cleanliness is crucial. This lack of regulation is one reason the CDC advises against placenta consumption, even in capsule form. They note that “no standards exist for processing placenta for consumption,” and that the encapsulation process doesn’t guarantee the elimination of infectious pathogens.
What Are the Claimed Benefits?
If you search for information on placenta encapsulation, you’ll find a plethora of articles touting its benefits, often featuring celebrities who swear by it. Advocates claim it can alleviate postpartum struggles like fatigue and depression, boost energy, enhance milk production, and even balance hormones. Essentially, consuming your placenta is marketed as a way to become a super-mom.
But here’s the reality check: scientific studies have found no evidence supporting these claims. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Canada assessed whether placenta consumption could help new parents with mood disorders. The results? The pills didn’t show any improvement in mood, energy, or even breastfeeding success. Another well-controlled study found no increase in iron levels among those who took placenta capsules.
Are There Risks to Consuming Your Placenta?
Beyond the absence of benefits, potential health risks loom large. There have been documented cases of contamination, including one instance where a baby was hospitalized after the mother consumed contaminated placenta pills. Studies have even detected heavy metals like lead and arsenic in these capsules, which could be harmful to newborns. This is why organizations like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the CDC strongly advise against this practice. As ACOG states, “there is no scientific evidence of any clinical benefit of placentophagy among humans,” and any potential nutrients are likely lost during encapsulation.
Should You Encapsulate Your Placenta?
Given the lack of verified benefits and the potential risks, many people might choose not to encapsulate and consume their placenta. However, every individual is different, and if you feel the benefits outweigh the risks, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider. They can help you understand your specific risks and guide you through any potential red flags.
For those interested in family planning, consider checking out Make A Mom, a service that offers at-home insemination options. You can also explore their how it works page for more insight into the process. If you’re seeking a supportive community, join the Make A Mom Facebook group for shared experiences and advice. It’s all about making informed choices that work for your unique journey.
Summary
In summary, while placenta encapsulation is a popular trend among some new parents, the scientific evidence does not support its claimed benefits, and there are significant health risks to consider. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making decisions about your postpartum care.
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