Breast Feeding, Newborn, Pregnancy

P2B is being asked more and more about placenta encapsulation.  So let me break it down for you

What is placenta encapsulation?

Placenta encapsulation is where following birth the placenta is steamed, dehydrated and powderise and made into ‘ready-to-swallow’ pills.

It is believed that ingesting your placenta after the birth of your baby will help improve your mood, increase your iron stores and increase your milk production.

Unfortunately, there have been no in-depth peer-reviewed studies that have supported these claims or benefits.

Most hormones are destroyed in the encapsulation process except the hormone’s oestrogen and progesterone.

Lactation is inhibited during pregnancy by progesterone produced by the placenta. Therefore, re ingestion of these hormones may have a negative effect on lactation, causing a reduction in milk supply for some breastfeeding women.

The continued oestrogen intake also has the potential to increase the risk of blood clots.

In summary, there is not enough research positive or negative to give an infinitive answer as to the benefits or risks of placenta encapsulation.  If this is something you are considering please discuss with your chosen health care professional.

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