FAQ’s
What is Placentophagia?
Placentophagia is the process of a new mother consuming her placenta postpartum by either eating the placenta raw, cooked, in capsule form or drinking the juices from the placenta once it is cooked.
Have any scientific research studies been made on placentophagia?
Yes, as a matter of a fact, many studies have been done on the subject. The links below are scholarly articles regarding placenta encapsulation benefits.
Does eating placenta offer postpartum health benefits?
Steamed, Dehydrated or Raw: Placentas May Help Moms’ Post-Partum Health
How will you encapsulate my placenta?
I will stop by the hospital to pick up the placenta and I will begin the encapsulation process as explained in the services page. Once I have completed the encapsulation, I will drop the capsules off along with some keepsakes and answer any further questions you may have.
What safety measures do you take during the encapsulation?
I follow all OSHA Bloodborne Pathogen standards when encapsulating and am certified through the American Red Cross. The entire work area and instruments are washed thoroughly with hot water and a bleach solution. Everything I use is non-latex, disposable, stainless steel or food grade plastic. In addition I only work with one placenta at a time in my home, so I can dedicate my full attention and care into it.
I ask that all clients sign an agreement that states they do not have HIV or Hepatitis.
Will my capsules have an aftertaste?
I use vegetarian 00 capsules which are the same capsules used for supplements. Therefore, there is no aftertaste or pungent smell to them.
Can I encapsulate my placenta if I have a C-Section or receive medication such as an epidural during labor?
Yes, your placenta can be encapsulated whether you have a vaginal or cesarean section or if you receive pain medication during labor. This will not affect the outcome of your encapsulation.
Just please make sure you advice the nursing staff that you wish to keep your placenta so they don’t discard it or use any chemicals on it (this will void the encapsulation).
Can I encapsulate my placenta if I received antibiotics during pregnancy or if I am GBS positive?
Yes, a mom that is tested positive for Group B Step can encapsulate her placenta unless she develops a fever during her labor and has her placenta taken to pathology.
Does the placenta store any toxins?
The placenta acts as a filter rather than a storage. Any waste between the mother and baby is removed through the mom just as any other waste is removed from her body. The placenta does not hold on to any waste unless the mother was a smoker, and heavy metals in cigarettes do build up overtime.
What if the hospital refuses to release my placenta?
There are no laws in the State of Michigan against releasing a placenta to it’s rightful owner. United States Placenta Release Laws
Can I still encapsulate my placenta if I decide to bank my cord blood?
Yes, you absolutely can. Once the blood is collected from the cord, the placenta can be given to you for your encapsulation.
Can I encapsulate my placenta if meconium was present during labor?
Yes, meconium doesn’t have the bacteria present in normal stool. In addition, the placenta is gently rinsed and washed entirely before he encapsulation process even begins.
How does each method of encapsulation differ?
There are a couple of key differences between Raw and TCM. Otherwise, you can enjoy the benefits of both, and encapsulate half and half.
They have a different shelf life; Raw has a shelf life of about 12 to 18 months max, whereas TCM can last up to 2 years.
The Raw method is rinsed thoroughly. It is then dehydrated at a low temperature in order to maintain all the hormones and nutrients in the best state possible.
Raw is great method for immediate postpartum intake. It can help increase or maintain your milk supply, increase energy, lessen postpartum bleeding, balance your hormones, increase iron and balance mood.
TCM (aka heated method) can help prolong the use of your capsules, continue to balance your hormones, your mood, diminish stress, and aid you throughout your future cycles. It also helps maintain your milk supply down the line. This method is also a great option if a mom has any history of anxiety, hyperactivity or postpartum depression.
Mother's Own-Placenta Encapsulation Services 