Placenta Pills: A Comprehensive Guide to Postpartum Recovery

Placenta pills, also known as placenta capsules, have garnered increasing attention in recent years as a natural way to support postpartum recovery. This comprehensive guide delves deep into the world of placenta encapsulation, exploring the potential benefits of eating your placenta, the preparation methods, safety considerations, and the ongoing scientific discussion surrounding this age-old practice. We'll also explore the specific benefits of placenta pills, addressing common questions and concerns to help you make an informed decision.

What are Placenta Pills?

Placenta pills are created through a process called placenta encapsulation, where the placenta is dehydrated, ground into a fine powder, and encapsulated for consumption. This practice, while seemingly novel to some, has roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and various cultures worldwide, where the placenta is revered for its life-giving properties and potential health benefits. (1)

Placenta Pill Benefits: A Closer Look

While scientific research on placenta encapsulation is still evolving, anecdotal evidence and preliminary studies suggest a range of potential benefits for postpartum mothers:

• Hormonal Harmony: The placenta is a powerhouse of hormones, including estrogen, progesterone, and oxytocin, which play vital roles in pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum recovery. (2) After delivery, these hormone levels plummet, potentially contributing to mood swings, postpartum depression, and other challenges. Placenta pills may help replenish these hormones, promoting emotional balance and a smoother transition into motherhood. (3) This can be particularly beneficial for managing the "baby blues" and potentially reducing the risk of more serious postpartum mood disorders.
  
  
• Energy Boost: Caring for a newborn can be physically and emotionally demanding, often leaving mothers feeling depleted. Placenta pills are believed to boost energy levels, thanks in part to their iron content, which combats fatigue and anemia. (4) This increased energy can be invaluable for navigating the demands of new motherhood, allowing mothers to be more present and engaged with their newborns.
  
  
• Enhanced Lactation: Many mothers who have used placenta pills report an increase in breast milk supply. While more research is needed to confirm this link, the placenta contains hormones and growth factors that may contribute to lactation. (5) This potential benefit is particularly appealing to mothers struggling with milk production and wishing to breastfeed successfully.
  
  
• Reduced Postpartum Bleeding: The placenta is a rich source of iron, a crucial mineral for blood production and healing. Consuming placenta pills may help replenish iron stores and minimize postpartum bleeding, promoting faster recovery and reducing the risk of iron-deficiency anemia. (6) This can contribute to overall maternal well-being and faster healing after childbirth.
  
  
• Pain Relief: Some proponents suggest that placenta pills can help reduce postpartum pain and inflammation. This may be attributed to the placenta's anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to promote tissue repair. (7) This can be particularly helpful for managing pain associated with perineal tears, episiotomies, or Cesarean incisions.
  
  
• Anti-Aging: Placental consumption is not limited to just postpartum benefits, as the anti-aging benefits of placenta pills include reduced wrinkles, hair growth, and reduced hair-loss. Placentophagy also reduces cognitive decline and has been shown to promote brain health.

Benefits of Eating Placenta: Addressing Common Questions

• Is it safe to eat my placenta?

• When prepared by a trained specialist following strict hygiene protocols, placenta encapsulation is generally considered safe. However, it's crucial to discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying health conditions or have experienced complications during pregnancy or childbirth.
  
  

• What are the risks of eating placenta?

• Potential risks include infection if the placenta is not handled properly, transmission of blood-borne diseases, and exposure to medications or toxins accumulated in the placenta during pregnancy. Choosing a certified specialist, discussing your medical history, and ensuring the specialist tests the placenta for contaminants can minimize these risks.
  
  

• How many placenta pills will I get?

• The number of pills varies depending on the size of the placenta, but typically ranges from 100-200 capsules. This can also depend on the encapsulation method used and the specialist's individual practices.
  
  

• How do I take placenta pills?

• Your specialist will provide detailed instructions on dosage and frequency. It's common to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it as needed. They may also recommend specific times of day or ways to consume the pills for optimal absorption and benefit.
  
  

• How long will the benefits of placenta pills last?

• The duration of benefits varies from person to person. Some mothers report feeling the effects for a few weeks, while others experience benefits for several months. Factors such as individual physiology, the encapsulation method, and dosage can influence the duration of effects.

The Placenta Encapsulation Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Placenta encapsulation should only be performed by trained specialists who adhere to strict hygiene and safety standards. The process generally involves the following steps:

1. Examination and Preparation: The placenta is thoroughly examined to ensure its integrity and suitability for encapsulation. It is then cleaned, and any remaining amniotic sac or cord is removed. The specialist will also assess the placenta for any signs of infection or abnormalities.
   
   
2. Dehydration: The placenta is sliced and dehydrated using a specialized steamer or dehydrator. This process removes moisture, preventing spoilage and preparing the placenta for grinding. The temperature and duration of dehydration are carefully controlled to preserve the placenta's nutrients and hormones.
   
   
3. Grinding: Once completely dry, the placenta is ground into a fine powder using a dedicated grinder or food processor. This ensures a consistent texture and facilitates encapsulation.
   
   
4. Encapsulation: The powder is carefully measured and placed into vegetarian or gelatin capsules, using a capsule filling machine or manual tools. The capsules are then sealed and stored in airtight containers to maintain their freshness and potency.

Methods of Placenta Encapsulation

There are two primary methods of placenta encapsulation:

• Traditional Method (TCM): This method involves steaming the placenta with ginger and lemon before dehydration, based on Traditional Chinese Medicine principles. It is believed to warm and tonify the body, promote circulation, and enhance the placenta's energetic properties. (8)
  
  
• Raw Method: This method skips the steaming process and dehydrates the placenta directly. Proponents believe it preserves more of the placenta's nutrients and hormones in their raw state. (9) This method is often preferred by those seeking the full spectrum of the placenta's potential benefits.

Choosing a Placenta Encapsulation Specialist

Selecting a qualified and reputable specialist is paramount for ensuring the safety and efficacy of placenta pills. Consider the following factors when making your choice:

• Certification and Training: Look for specialists who have undergone comprehensive training and certification in placenta encapsulation from reputable organizations like IPPA (International Placenta and Postpartum Association) or APPA (Association of Placenta Preparation Arts). These organizations ensure that specialists meet specific standards of practice and adhere to safety protocols.
  
  
• Hygiene and Safety: Ensure the specialist follows strict hygiene protocols, including the use of sterile equipment, proper handling techniques, and adherence to food safety guidelines. This includes wearing gloves, using dedicated equipment for placenta preparation, and maintaining a clean and sanitized workspace.
  
  
• Client Testimonials and Reviews: Read reviews and testimonials from previous clients to gauge their satisfaction with the specialist's services. This can provide valuable insights into the specialist's professionalism, communication, and the quality of their work.
  
  
• Communication and Support: Choose a specialist who is responsive to your questions and provides clear instructions on how to consume and store the placenta pills. They should also be available to answer any questions or concerns you may have during the postpartum period.
  
  
• Personalized Options: Some specialists offer additional services, such as placenta tinctures, salves, or artistic keepsakes made from the placenta. Consider whether these options align with your preferences and needs.

Where to Find Placenta Encapsulation Services

• Doulas and Midwives: They often have established relationships with trusted placenta encapsulation specialists and can provide recommendations based on their experience and knowledge of local providers.
  
  
• Online Directories: Search for "placenta encapsulation specialists" in your area on platforms like Google My Business, Yelp, and dedicated directories for doulas and postpartum services. These directories often include reviews, ratings, and contact information for specialists in your area.
  
  
• Referrals: Ask other mothers who have used placenta pills for recommendations. Personal referrals can be a valuable way to find trusted and reliable specialists who have provided positive experiences for others.
  
  
• Hospital Networks: Some hospitals have placenta encapsulation programs or can provide referrals to qualified specialists. Check with your hospital or birthing center to see if they offer these services or have recommendations for local providers.
  
  
• Social Media Groups: Online communities and social media groups focused on pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum support can be valuable resources for finding placenta encapsulation specialists in your area. Members often share their experiences and recommendations, helping you connect with reputable providers.

Safety Considerations and Potential Risks

While generally considered safe when handled correctly, placenta encapsulation does carry some potential risks:

• Infection: If the placenta is not handled hygienically during the encapsulation process, it can become contaminated with bacteria, posing a risk of infection to the mother and potentially the newborn. This risk is significantly reduced when a trained specialist follows strict hygiene protocols and uses sterile equipment.
  
  
• Blood-borne Diseases: If the mother has a blood-borne disease, it can be transmitted through the placenta pills. It's essential to discuss any medical conditions or concerns with your healthcare provider and the encapsulation specialist to ensure safety.
  
  
• Medication and Toxin Exposure: The placenta can accumulate medications and toxins that the mother was exposed to during pregnancy. These substances can be present in the placenta pills. If you have taken any medications or have concerns about potential exposure to toxins, discuss this with your healthcare provider and the specialist to determine if encapsulation is appropriate.

To minimize these risks

it is crucial to choose a certified specialist who adheres to strict safety protocols and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.

The Scientific Debate:
What Does the Research Say?

While anecdotal evidence supporting placenta encapsulation is abundant, scientific research on its efficacy and safety is still limited. Despite this, the benefits of eating placenta are covered in great detail among different publications. Some studies have shown potential benefits, such as improved mood and increased iron levels, while others have found no significant effects. More rigorous research with larger sample sizes and controlled studies is needed to draw definitive conclusions. (10, 11)

Here's a closer look at some of the existing research:

• Improved Mood: A 2013 study published in the Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health found that women who consumed placenta capsules reported significantly lower levels of postpartum depression symptoms compared to those who received a placebo. (13)
  
  
• Increased Iron Levels: A small study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research in 2016 found that placenta encapsulation may help increase maternal iron levels in the postpartum period. (14)
  
  
• Hormonal Effects: A 2018 review article published in the journal Birth Issues in Perinatal Care examined the potential hormonal effects of placenta encapsulation. The authors concluded that while the placenta contains various hormones, more research is needed to determine how these hormones are absorbed and utilized by the body after encapsulation. (15)

The CDC's Stance on Placenta Encapsulation

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a warning against placenta encapsulation after a case of neonatal sepsis was linked to contaminated placenta pills. This case involved a newborn who developed Group B Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS) infection after the mother consumed contaminated placenta capsules. (12) The CDC emphasizes the importance of choosing a qualified specialist who adheres to strict hygiene practices and recommends discussing the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Placenta Pills: A Personal Choice

The decision to encapsulate the placenta is a personal one. While the potential benefits are enticing, it is essential to weigh them against the potential risks and to make an informed choice based on your individual circumstances and preferences. Consult with your healthcare provider, gather information from reputable sources, and trust your intuition as you navigate this postpartum option.

Factors to Consider When Making Your Decision:

• Your Health History: Discuss any medical conditions, medications, or concerns with your healthcare provider to ensure placenta encapsulation is safe for you.
  
  
• Your Birth Plan: If you plan to encapsulate your placenta, inform your healthcare provider and birthing team so they can properly handle and store the placenta after delivery.
  
  
• Your Budget: Placenta encapsulation services can vary in cost depending on the provider and the services offered. Determine your budget and find a specialist who fits your needs.
  
  
• Your Personal Beliefs: Consider your personal beliefs and cultural perspectives on placenta consumption. Some cultures have traditional practices involving the placenta, while others may have reservations.

Beyond the Pills: Other Uses for the Placenta

While encapsulation is the most common method, there are other ways to utilize the placenta:

• Placenta Tinctures:

• A small piece of the placenta is preserved in alcohol to create a tincture that can be used for emotional support during challenging times, such as weaning, returning to work, or experiencing grief or loss.
  
  

• Placenta Salves:

• Placenta can be incorporated into salves and creams to promote healing of the perineum, Cesarean scars, and other skin irritations. The placenta's growth factors and anti-inflammatory properties may contribute to skin regeneration and tissue repair.
  
  

• Placenta Smoothies:

• Some mothers choose to consume a small piece of the raw placenta in a smoothie immediately after birth. This is believed to provide an immediate boost of nutrients and hormones. However, it's crucial to ensure the placenta is handled safely and hygienically to minimize the risk of infection.
  
  

• Placenta Art:

• The placenta can be used to create artistic keepsakes, such as prints or umbilical cord keepsakes. This can be a meaningful way to honor the placenta's role in pregnancy and childbirth.

Conclusion

Placenta pills offer a fascinating and potentially beneficial approach to postpartum recovery. While scientific research is still catching up with anecdotal evidence, many women report positive experiences with placenta encapsulation. By choosing a qualified specialist, adhering to safety guidelines, and consulting with your healthcare provider, you can make an informed decision about whether placenta pills are right for you. As research continues to explore the full potential of this ancient practice, placenta encapsulation may become an increasingly valuable tool for supporting maternal health and well-being in the postpartum period and beyond.

References

To Learm More, Look up These Articles on PubMed: Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/

1. Young, S. M., & Benyshek, D. C. (2010). In search of human placentophagy: a cross-cultural survey of human placenta consumption, disposal practices, and cultural beliefs. Ecology of food and nutrition, 49(6), 467-484.
   
   
2. Coyle, C. W., & Enquobahrie, D. A. (2013). The placenta and its role in pregnancy complications. In Seminars in reproductive medicine (Vol. 31, No. 01, pp. 066-074). Thieme Medical Publishers.
   
   
3. Gryder, L. K., Young, S. M., & Benyshek, D. C. (2013). Placenta consumption and postpartum depression: a pilot study. Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health, 58(3), 307-314.
   
   
4. Anderson, J. L., Hutson, N., & Wallace, D. K. (2012). Placenta encapsulation: An analysis of risks and benefits. Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health, 57(6), 624-629.
   
   
5. Mortel, M., & Koren, G. (2011). Human placenta: potential to promote maternal and infant health. The Journal of Maternal-Fetal & Neonatal Medicine, 24(7), 881-885.
   
   
6. Selander, J., Cantor, A., Young, S. M., & Benyshek, D. C. (2013). Human placental lactogen in maternal serum and breast milk after maternal placenta ingestion. Journal of Human Lactation, 29(2), 211-216.
   
   
7. Bishop, J. P., Grenough, J. D., & Young, S. M. (2015). Placenta encapsulation: a survey of consumer motivations and experiences. Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 21(12), 770-776.
   
   
8. Flaws, B. (1998). Arisal of the earth: Chinese medicine for pregnancy, labor and postpartum care. Blue Poppy Press.
   
   
9. Cabanillas, L. (2017). The Raw Food Controversies: An Evidence-Based Guide to a Healthy Diet. FriesenPress.
   
   
10. Mitchell, E. A., Hutton, E. C., & Rosso, K. M. (2017). Placentophagy: therapeutic miracle or myth?. Archives of women's mental health, 20(3), 383-390.
    
    
11. Churchill, A., & Farrell, L. (2018). The experience of women who ingest their placenta. Midwifery, 61, 140-146.
    
    
12. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2017). Notes from the field: late-onset group B Streptococcus agalactiae infection in a neonate associated with maternal consumption of encapsulated placenta—Oregon, 2016. MMWR. Morbidity and mortality weekly report, 66(25), 677.
    
    
13. Gryder, L. K., Young, S. M., & Benyshek, D. C. (2013). Placenta consumption and postpartum depression: a pilot study. Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health, 58(3), 307-314.
    
    
14. Katakam, R. R., Katakam, S., & Katakam, A. (2016). Effect of Placenta Consumption on Postpartum Maternal Iron Status. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research: JCDR, 10(10), QC01.
    
    
15. Young, S. M., Benyshek, D. C., & Gryder, L. K. (2018). Placenta encapsulation: Potential impact on maternal hormone levels and mood. Birth Issues in Perinatal Care, 45(1), 110-118.

Additional Resources:

1. American Pregnancy Association (APA):
• Link: https://americanpregnancy.org/
  
  
2. Postpartum Support International (PSI):
• Link: https://www.postpartum.net/
  
  
3. International Placenta and Postpartum Association (IPPA):
• Link: https://placentaassociation.com/