Placenta encapsulation is a process where the placenta, which is the organ that nourishes your baby during pregnancy, is prepared and processed into capsules that can be consumed after childbirth.There are two main methods of processing a placenta, either steamed with lemon and ginger, then dehydrated (Traditional Chinese Medicine Inspired Method) or only dehydrated (Raw Method), then put into capsules for the birthing person to consume during their postpartum period. While the benefits are only anecdotal at this time, there are a number of research articles starting to be written, it is the experiences of many postpartum women sharing what they notice to be wonderful benefits!
Considering having your Placenta Encapsulated; here are some of the benefits: Preventing or reducing postpartum depression symptoms: Postpartum depression was previous linked to lack of sleep and the general transition to motherhood. Now, researchers are finding that the newly postpartum individuals are lacking in corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) which causes the release of cortisol, the stress fighting hormone. CRH is secreted in high amounts during the final trimester of pregnancy, and once the baby and placenta are birthed, the levels of CRH drop sharply, thus the link between the low levels of CRH and postpartum depression are being explored. Replenishing iron levels in your body: When you birth your baby, you lose a large amount of blood. And as your uterus returns to its pre-pregnancy size, you lose a large amount of blood. While both are completely normal, the decrease in your blood volume can also decrease the iron levels in your body. By consuming your placenta, you are able to replenish some of those iron levels.
Hormone Stabilization: By consuming your own placenta, you are also consuming the hormones from your baby and your body during pregnancy. This consumption is thought to even out the hormones in your postpartum body, thus decreasing the symptoms of postpartum depression.
Establish and improve early breastmilk production: It has been shown that when placenta capsules are consumed, breastmilk production increases in the early postpartum days.
Increasing levels of oxytocin: Oxytocin, also known as the love hormone, is responsible for bonding, happiness, natural pain relief, and helping the uterus return to it’s pre-pregnancy size faster. By consuming your placenta, you are getting greater doses of oxytocin, and thus receiving more of the aforementioned benefits of the hormone.
Each person's experience with their placenta is a personal one, taking the time to discuss your thoughts and questions with your care provider and doulas trained in providing this service will provide a basis of informed knowledge to support making your decision.
At the Kootenay Doula Group, we are proud to offer a diverse team of skilled doulas that provide Placenta Encapsulation. Below, you can explore our team of doulas that offer this service. Simply click on each name to learn more about them.