The decision to consume one’s placenta after childbirth, a practice known as placenta consumption, has become increasingly popular in recent years. Many new mothers are curious about the potential benefits of eating their placenta, driven by reports claiming it can aid in postnatal recovery, alleviate postnatal depression, and improve overall well-being. But what does the evidence really say? In this article, we will explore the scientific basis behind placenta consumption, the methods involved, and how it fits into antenatal care and postnatal recovery plans. We’ll also consider the safety, potential risks, and the importance of working closely with your antenatal care provider when making decisions about your postpartum recovery.
What is Placenta Consumption?
Placenta consumption is the practice of ingesting the placenta after childbirth. Some parents choose to consume their placenta in various forms, including dried, cooked, or in smoothies, capsules, or tinctures. The idea behind this practice is rooted in several claims about its potential health benefits, particularly for postnatal recovery. The placenta is the organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy, providing nutrients and oxygen to the baby and removing waste products. Once the baby is born, the placenta is typically discarded. However, some believe that consuming the placenta can restore nutrients lost during childbirth and aid in recovery, although there is limited scientific evidence to support these claims.
Why Do Some People Choose to Consume Their Placenta?
Supporters of placenta consumption often claim a range of postnatal recovery benefits. The main reasons cited include:
1. Boosting Energy Levels
Many women experience fatigue during the early postpartum period. Some proponents of placenta consumption believe that it can help restore energy levels and combat postnatal fatigue. This claim is based on the theory that the placenta contains nutrients and hormones that could help the body recover after birth.
2. Supporting Hormonal Balance
The placenta is rich in hormones, including progesterone and estrogen, which play vital roles in pregnancy and childbirth. Some believe that consuming the placenta can help replenish these hormones and prevent postnatal depression, an issue that affects many women in the months following childbirth.
3. Enhancing Milk Production
Another reported benefit of placenta consumption is an increase in milk production. The placenta is thought to contain hormones such as prolactin, which supports lactation. Some women choose to consume their placenta to help boost milk supply during the early days of breastfeeding.
4. Replenishing Nutrients
The placenta is a rich source of iron, B vitamins, and other essential nutrients. Supporters argue that eating the placenta can help replenish the body’s stores of these nutrients, which may be depleted after childbirth. While these benefits are widely discussed, they are not fully supported by scientific research. There is currently a lack of robust, high-quality evidence to demonstrate that placenta consumption is effective in improving postnatal recovery or preventing postnatal depression. However, the practice is gaining traction, and more studies are being conducted to better understand its potential effects.
What Does the Research Say?
The scientific evidence for placenta consumption is limited, and research on its effectiveness and safety remains inconclusive. Some studies suggest that consuming the placenta may have certain benefits, while others have found no significant effects.
Limited Research on Health Benefits
While there is some anecdotal evidence supporting the practice of placenta consumption, most studies are small and lack rigorous controls. A study published in The Journal of Midwifery & Women’s Health in 2013 found that consuming placenta in capsule form did not significantly impact postpartum depression or energy levels. However, the study acknowledged that the placebo effect could have influenced the results, as participants believed they were receiving a beneficial treatment.
Potential Nutrient Replenishment
There is a possibility that consuming the placenta could help replenish nutrients such as iron, particularly in women who experience significant blood loss during childbirth. However, there are other, safer ways to boost iron levels and overall postnatal nutrition, such as consuming prenatal vitamins and following a balanced diet. The antenatal care team can help advise on the best strategies for improving nutrient intake after delivery.
Hormonal Considerations
Some studies have suggested that consuming the placenta may help maintain hormone levels, including progesterone and estrogen. These hormones are essential for pregnancy, and their levels drop significantly after childbirth, which can contribute to conditions like postnatal depression. However, there is little scientific evidence to suggest that ingesting the placenta directly impacts hormone levels or prevents postpartum mood disorders.
Safety Concerns
While the potential benefits of placenta consumption are still debated, safety is another significant concern. Ingesting the placenta could pose risks if the organ is not handled properly. The placenta is a biological organ, and if it is not stored or prepared safely, it could cause bacterial contamination or infection. The NHS and most medical professionals do not recommend consuming the placenta due to the risks involved. If you are considering this practice, it’s essential to consult with your antenatal care provider to ensure that you understand the risks and follow safe practices.
How Should I Consume My Placenta?
If you decide to go ahead with placenta consumption, there are several methods to prepare it. These methods are popular among those who prefer to consume their placenta for its potential health benefits. However, it is crucial to ensure that the placenta is prepared and consumed safely.
1. Placenta Encapsulation
One of the most common ways to consume the placenta is by having it encapsulated. This involves drying the placenta, grinding it into powder, and then placing it into capsules. Many people choose to use professional services to encapsulate the placenta safely. If you decide to encapsulate your placenta, ensure that the person preparing it is certified and follows proper hygiene practices.
2. Cooking and Freezing
Some people choose to cook their placenta before consumption. It can be prepared in a variety of ways, such as roasting, steaming, or making it into a stew. Cooking the placenta is thought to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination and ensure that it is safe for consumption.
3. Smoothies
For those who prefer a more immediate consumption method, some opt to blend small pieces of the placenta into a smoothie. This method requires careful preparation and proper hygiene to avoid contamination.
4. Placenta Tinctures
Another method of placenta consumption is creating a tincture. This involves soaking the placenta in alcohol to extract its nutrients. The tincture can be consumed in small doses and is thought to have medicinal properties. Regardless of the method you choose, it is essential to ensure that you follow strict hygiene protocols to avoid potential contamination. The placenta should be stored immediately after birth in a clean, sterile container, and any preparation should be done in a clean, sanitary environment.
Antenatal Support and Decision-Making
Before deciding to consume your placenta, it is important to discuss the matter with your antenatal care provider. Your midwife or obstetrician can provide guidance on the safety of the practice and help you make an informed decision based on your health, your birth plan, and any underlying medical conditions. If you are planning to attend antenatal classes, this could be a great opportunity to discuss your options for postnatal recovery and learn about other methods of promoting healing and well-being after childbirth. Topics such as postpartum fitness, antenatal yoga, and relaxation during pregnancy can also be beneficial for a smoother recovery. Placenta consumption is a practice that continues to be surrounded by controversy and uncertainty. While some claim it can aid in postnatal recovery, the scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited. The antenatal care team can offer invaluable guidance, ensuring that your postnatal recovery is well-managed and supported by the safest and most effective practices. If you are considering consuming your placenta, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that it is done safely, and to discuss any potential risks associated with the practice. Whether you choose to consume your placenta or explore other options, remember that your antenatal support network is there to guide you through the recovery process, helping you make the best decision for your health and well-being.
References
- The Ultimate Antenatal Classes
Prepare for labour, birth, and baby care with nine experts, including senior NHS midwives and an award-winning obstetrician!
https://unii.com/en/journey/ultimate-antenatal-classes