Placenta FAQs
Are there any risks with placenta encapsulation?
Though few and rare, there are some risks associated with consuming your placenta. These risks are similar to risks involving food-borne illness. They are as follows:
What does the encapsulation process look like?
Day One
What type of supplies are used and how are they sterilized?
The supplies used during the placenta encapsulation process are all stainless steel, food grade plastic, or disposable. Everything is thoroughly washed with soap and hot water and sanitized in 10% bleach solution. I follow the same guidelines for cleanliness and sanitation that are used in food service establishments and small laboratories. W ⋅ I ⋅S ⋅ E Women Informed, Supported & Empowered has certified with Full Circle Placenta, OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens & Infection Control, and ServSafe Food Safety and follows high safety standards when processing each placenta.
Do I need to provide any supplies for the process?
Unless you have certain blood borne illnesses, then no. I provide all the necessary materials for the placenta encapsulation process. All I need is your placenta. If I am preparing in your home, I do ask that the sink and counter tops be clean.
What is proper placenta care & handling for encapsulation?
The placenta should be placed in a zip lock bag, or other sealed container, that is labeled correctly with all the clients information (delivery date, time, location, baby’s full name) and placed in a cooler surrounded by ice or ice packs right away. The placenta should not sit out for more than 4 hours at room temperature. In the event that I cannot pick up the placenta within 24 hours of the birth, the placenta should only sit in a sealed container in a 30-40 degrees F degree refrigerator for no more than 4-5 days. And after 5 days, the placenta should be moved to a stand alone or deep freezer for no more than 6 months post-birth for optimal hormone and nutrient quality. More detailed instructions are listed in my contract.
What is the ideal time frame for encapsulation?
The encapsulation process should begin within 24-48 hours of the birth. That being said, birth is a busy time and often the 24-48 hour guideline is impossible due to logistics. So, best case scenario is for the placenta to be prepared for encapsulation within the first four days after birth. The placenta should be stored in the refrigerator until I arrive.
If it is not possible to start the process within the 4 days following birth, the placenta should be promptly frozen. Double-bag the placenta in gallon-sized zip lock freezer bags. The placenta must be completely thawed before encapsulation, which will take at least 24-48 hours in the refrigerator. Please contact me regarding best storage options for your time frame.
Placentas should not be frozen, thawed, and then refrozen.
Where should I have my placenta processed?
Can't decide where to have your placenta processed at? Check out here for more information to decide where you would like your placenta prepared.
Can't I do this myself? Why do I need to hire someone.
It honestly just depends on what you want to do. But here is good link to help mothers decide if they should try DIY or hire a certified specialist.
What if I am a vegetarian?
Vegan casules are available by request. Let me know in advance and we can make it work.
Can I still keep my placenta if I have a medicated birth or caesarean section?
Absolutely! as long as your placenta has not been taken to pathology and has been handled correctly then the answer is YES.
I’ve heard the placenta is full of waste and may contain toxins, is this true?
Your placenta is an organ that allows the passage of waste and nutrients between mother and fetus without the blood mixing. It is not a filter. It acts as a life supply for your baby during pregnancy and if it were full of toxins this would make a very dangerous organ for your baby to be fed from, therefore it is not possible for the placenta to be ‘full of waste’. There are small amounts of heavy metals in the placenta however it is scientifically proven that these levels are no grater than normal levels of heavy metals found in the body and in mothers colostrum and breast milk. Click here and here for more information regarding your placenta and toxins,
How many capsules will my placenta make?
Placentas make between 90-300 capsules depending on the type of method you choose and the size of your placenta.
How should I take my placenta capsules?
Dosage varies from mother to mother depending on their adjustment in the postpartum period. Listen to your body and take as needed. Never take pills during sickness or infection. Wait until symptoms subside to continue If you have an over supply or milk, do not exceed 9 pills in a 24 hour period or you will risk clogged milk ducts. Never stop taking the pills abruptly. The sudden decrease of hormones can cause baby blues. Reduce the amount of pills gradually over a few days.
How should I stop taking my placenta capsules?
Reduce the amount of pills gradually over a few days. I recommend that a mother takes her capsules for the first few weeks postpartum at least, but it is best to continue taking them until they are gone. Some moms do set a few aside for future transitions that they feel they would benefit from taking their capsules during, such as returning to work, future moves, travel away from baby, start of preschool/kindergarten, major illness, etc. Never stop taking the pills abruptly. The sudden decrease of hormones can cause baby blues.
Is there any time I should NOT take the pills?
Placenta should NOT be taken if the body is fighting off a common cold, flu, or infection. If you should get a breast infection (mastitis), the pills should not be taken until infection is cleared. If symptoms such as chills, fever, sneezing, aches, flushed cheeks, hot palms and feet or night sweats should occur, stop taking the capsules until the body has fought this off. The reason for this is because the placenta is extremely tonifying in nature and can cause a pathogen to grow stronger and go deeper into the body according to the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Do not take placenta pills during pregnancy.
Will I experience any side effects when taking my placenta capsules?
This carries from woman to woman, since each with react differently to her capsules. I cannot guarantee results with placenta capsules or any other placenta remedy. Because your placenta is made by you the quality and potency of your placenta products is unique to your own placenta. I highly recommend you follow the care instructions given with your capsules, but more importantly listening to your own body. Storing your placenta capsules properly, avoiding capsules when ill and not taking over the recommended dose will reduce your chances of experiencing any side effect. Very rarely people who have utilized their placenta postpartum have reported some side effects when taking their placenta capsules. Some of those effects are listed below.
Do the capsules smell or taste of anything?
Some mothers say the placenta capsule have an ‘earthy’ smell. Placenta capsules may have a slight taste of meat however if swallowed quickly you will not notice any taste or smell. Some woman have also reported that their burps retain this "earthy" taste, but if you are concerned you can request flavored capsules if you give enough heads up so I can order and have them delivered in time.
How should I store my placenta capsules?
After the encapsulation process is completed placenta capsules will be placed in a sealed jar with a food safe silica packet (if desired) and should be kept dry. Store them in cool, dark area for first 6 weeks, after that store the remaining pills in ziplock bag in freezer to deter moisture build up. I do not recommend putting the pills in the fridge. Pills left in the jar and placed in the fridge/freezer can accumulate moisture, causing mold. You can use remaining pills for tincture or salve if desired.
What is the recommended usage and indications for Placenta Tincture?
Created with a small piece of your placenta tinctured in vodka, a placenta tincture is a great way to extract the many benefits and uses from the placenta, while giving it almost indefinite shelf life (as long as it is stored properly). Great for colds, energy boosts, indigestion, stress, PMS, depression and menopause. Even the biological daughter can use her mother's tincture to relieve her own PMS symptoms. Take 7-10 drops 3-4 times a day, or as needed. The best ingestion method is to put the drops under the tongue and hold for 60 seconds. You can also mix drops with a bit of juice or water, but this will dilute the tincture and cause it to become less effective. The mother may also give the tincture to a baby, 6 months or older, for teething, transitional periods, stress and to boost the immune system. The dosage for a healthy child is 3-5 drops mixed with breast milk, water or juice. It is also possible to heat the tincture to burn off the alcohol content. Do not exceed dosage. Store in cool, dark area.
Why should I get a salve?
A salve, or balm, made of your placenta and a variety of healing herbs and oils offers healing properties to:
C-section scars once they close, hemorrhoids, perineal tearing, cracked or blistered nipples, eczema, sunburn, diaper rash (cloth diaper safe!), skin irritation and more. You have the option to choose which herbs are added to your salve, such as lavender, chamomile, calendula, comfy and plantain. Essential oils can also be added to boost therapeutic qualities. Think of the salve as a super healing, natural triple antibiotic ointment!
Stores for 6 months in cool dark place. Keeps longer in fridge. You will be able to tell when it goes bad by it's smell.
What is in the little bag?
If you choose to have the umbilical cord returned, it will be dehydrated into a shape or symbol and returned to you with the rest of your items. Your baby’s umbilical cord has been dried into a heart or spiral as a keepsake. Some mothers chose to include them in baby books, keepsake boxes or bury them ceremonially. What you chose to do with it is your choice. In certain cultures it is tradition to bury the cord as a sign to keep the child grounded throughout their life and ensure they always return home.
What about the amount of progesterone in the placenta? Will it decrease my milk supply?
After birth of your baby and the delivery of the placenta, the sudden drop in progesterone is one of the triggers for full milk production. So there is some dispute if the levels of progesterone contained in the placenta will hinder breast milk production instead of increase it (one of the reported benefits of placenta consumption) When a mother is consuming her placenta postpartum, such as in capsules, her body is not retaining enough progesterone to have a significant effect on her milk production. Even if the placenta did have a high amount of residual progesterone, many mothers are still able to breastfeed through gestation, when progesterone levels are highest. One would also think it would cause an issue in mammalian species that eat their entire placenta raw immediately post birth. However, they do not suffer negative impact. You also have to consider the way in which this natural progesterone is being taken into the body. When the placenta is embedded in the uterine lining, it is directly releasing the chemical compounds into the mother's bloodstream. When you are swallowing a placenta capsule, it is working through the various stages of the digestive tract, therefore being processed indirectly. The progesterone found in encapsulated placenta can boost natural serotonin levels and is designed to work alongside oxytocin postpartum, aiding the mother in bonding, energy and sufficient healing. It is very rare that a mother reports a decrease in milk supply while taking her capsules, but it does happen. This is when it is important to listen to your body and adjust your intake as needed.
The information on this page has not been evaluated by the FDA due to the nature of this service. W ⋅ I ⋅S ⋅ E Women Informed, Supported & Empowered makes no medical treatment claims. Services provided are not clinical, pharmaceutical, or intended to diagnose or treat any condition. Women who chose to utilize the services on this page take full responsibility for their own health while consuming their placenta and product usage. Check with your health care provider to be sure your placenta is healthy and safe to consume/use.
Though few and rare, there are some risks associated with consuming your placenta. These risks are similar to risks involving food-borne illness. They are as follows:
- Unsanitary conditions –If the placenta is not handled and stored properly, or is prepared in unsanitary conditions, this puts you at risk of viral and bacterial contamination.
- Pathology –When the placenta is sent to Pathology, there is a chance the placenta has been contaminated with chemicals, that the equipment used for examination has not been properly sterilized, and even that the wrong placenta is returned to you.
- Insufficient dehydration –If the placenta is not dehydrated at a high enough temperature, there is a risk of mold and bacterial contamination.
What does the encapsulation process look like?
Day One
- If being prepared in my workspace, I pick up the placenta between the hours of 8 am and 8 pm. Otherwise you will store it at your home until released from your birth space
- Thorough sanitation of workspace and all equipment
- Careful rinsing and cleaning of the placenta, if meconium is present then an additional rinse with apple cider vinegar will be done
- Placenta print, if desired, is made using food-safe color or just using the natural blood.
- Tincture, if desired, is started by taking a small piece of placenta and placing into vodka to sit for 6 weeks
- Trimming of the cord, which can be dehydrated as a birth keepsake, if desired, otherwise it is added to the capsules
- If desired, steaming of the placenta using the TMC Inspired method (this step is skipped if choosing raw method)
- Placenta is sliced thinly and placed into the dehydrator where it will dehydrate for about 24-48 hours. Each placenta is different and takes a different amount of time to complete this step
- Thorough sanitation of workspace and all equipment that is not still in use (i.e. dehydrator)
- Thorough sanitation of workspace and all equipment
- Dehydrated strips are ground into a fine powder and put into capsules, and then packaged for drop off
- Thorough sanitation of workspace and all equipment
What type of supplies are used and how are they sterilized?
The supplies used during the placenta encapsulation process are all stainless steel, food grade plastic, or disposable. Everything is thoroughly washed with soap and hot water and sanitized in 10% bleach solution. I follow the same guidelines for cleanliness and sanitation that are used in food service establishments and small laboratories. W ⋅ I ⋅S ⋅ E Women Informed, Supported & Empowered has certified with Full Circle Placenta, OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens & Infection Control, and ServSafe Food Safety and follows high safety standards when processing each placenta.
Do I need to provide any supplies for the process?
Unless you have certain blood borne illnesses, then no. I provide all the necessary materials for the placenta encapsulation process. All I need is your placenta. If I am preparing in your home, I do ask that the sink and counter tops be clean.
What is proper placenta care & handling for encapsulation?
The placenta should be placed in a zip lock bag, or other sealed container, that is labeled correctly with all the clients information (delivery date, time, location, baby’s full name) and placed in a cooler surrounded by ice or ice packs right away. The placenta should not sit out for more than 4 hours at room temperature. In the event that I cannot pick up the placenta within 24 hours of the birth, the placenta should only sit in a sealed container in a 30-40 degrees F degree refrigerator for no more than 4-5 days. And after 5 days, the placenta should be moved to a stand alone or deep freezer for no more than 6 months post-birth for optimal hormone and nutrient quality. More detailed instructions are listed in my contract.
What is the ideal time frame for encapsulation?
The encapsulation process should begin within 24-48 hours of the birth. That being said, birth is a busy time and often the 24-48 hour guideline is impossible due to logistics. So, best case scenario is for the placenta to be prepared for encapsulation within the first four days after birth. The placenta should be stored in the refrigerator until I arrive.
If it is not possible to start the process within the 4 days following birth, the placenta should be promptly frozen. Double-bag the placenta in gallon-sized zip lock freezer bags. The placenta must be completely thawed before encapsulation, which will take at least 24-48 hours in the refrigerator. Please contact me regarding best storage options for your time frame.
Placentas should not be frozen, thawed, and then refrozen.
Where should I have my placenta processed?
Can't decide where to have your placenta processed at? Check out here for more information to decide where you would like your placenta prepared.
Can't I do this myself? Why do I need to hire someone.
It honestly just depends on what you want to do. But here is good link to help mothers decide if they should try DIY or hire a certified specialist.
What if I am a vegetarian?
Vegan casules are available by request. Let me know in advance and we can make it work.
Can I still keep my placenta if I have a medicated birth or caesarean section?
Absolutely! as long as your placenta has not been taken to pathology and has been handled correctly then the answer is YES.
I’ve heard the placenta is full of waste and may contain toxins, is this true?
Your placenta is an organ that allows the passage of waste and nutrients between mother and fetus without the blood mixing. It is not a filter. It acts as a life supply for your baby during pregnancy and if it were full of toxins this would make a very dangerous organ for your baby to be fed from, therefore it is not possible for the placenta to be ‘full of waste’. There are small amounts of heavy metals in the placenta however it is scientifically proven that these levels are no grater than normal levels of heavy metals found in the body and in mothers colostrum and breast milk. Click here and here for more information regarding your placenta and toxins,
How many capsules will my placenta make?
Placentas make between 90-300 capsules depending on the type of method you choose and the size of your placenta.
How should I take my placenta capsules?
Dosage varies from mother to mother depending on their adjustment in the postpartum period. Listen to your body and take as needed. Never take pills during sickness or infection. Wait until symptoms subside to continue If you have an over supply or milk, do not exceed 9 pills in a 24 hour period or you will risk clogged milk ducts. Never stop taking the pills abruptly. The sudden decrease of hormones can cause baby blues. Reduce the amount of pills gradually over a few days.
How should I stop taking my placenta capsules?
Reduce the amount of pills gradually over a few days. I recommend that a mother takes her capsules for the first few weeks postpartum at least, but it is best to continue taking them until they are gone. Some moms do set a few aside for future transitions that they feel they would benefit from taking their capsules during, such as returning to work, future moves, travel away from baby, start of preschool/kindergarten, major illness, etc. Never stop taking the pills abruptly. The sudden decrease of hormones can cause baby blues.
Is there any time I should NOT take the pills?
Placenta should NOT be taken if the body is fighting off a common cold, flu, or infection. If you should get a breast infection (mastitis), the pills should not be taken until infection is cleared. If symptoms such as chills, fever, sneezing, aches, flushed cheeks, hot palms and feet or night sweats should occur, stop taking the capsules until the body has fought this off. The reason for this is because the placenta is extremely tonifying in nature and can cause a pathogen to grow stronger and go deeper into the body according to the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Do not take placenta pills during pregnancy.
Will I experience any side effects when taking my placenta capsules?
This carries from woman to woman, since each with react differently to her capsules. I cannot guarantee results with placenta capsules or any other placenta remedy. Because your placenta is made by you the quality and potency of your placenta products is unique to your own placenta. I highly recommend you follow the care instructions given with your capsules, but more importantly listening to your own body. Storing your placenta capsules properly, avoiding capsules when ill and not taking over the recommended dose will reduce your chances of experiencing any side effect. Very rarely people who have utilized their placenta postpartum have reported some side effects when taking their placenta capsules. Some of those effects are listed below.
- Mild headaches (try lowering the dose to help alleviate pain)
- Stomach cramping for those also taking iron supplements
- PUPPPs rash returning after 3 days of consuming capsules (TMC may be better for this)
- Emotional symptoms, stress, anxiety, depression (documented more with RAW method)
- Insomnia (do not take capsules before bed, since they may help promote energy boosts)
Do the capsules smell or taste of anything?
Some mothers say the placenta capsule have an ‘earthy’ smell. Placenta capsules may have a slight taste of meat however if swallowed quickly you will not notice any taste or smell. Some woman have also reported that their burps retain this "earthy" taste, but if you are concerned you can request flavored capsules if you give enough heads up so I can order and have them delivered in time.
How should I store my placenta capsules?
After the encapsulation process is completed placenta capsules will be placed in a sealed jar with a food safe silica packet (if desired) and should be kept dry. Store them in cool, dark area for first 6 weeks, after that store the remaining pills in ziplock bag in freezer to deter moisture build up. I do not recommend putting the pills in the fridge. Pills left in the jar and placed in the fridge/freezer can accumulate moisture, causing mold. You can use remaining pills for tincture or salve if desired.
What is the recommended usage and indications for Placenta Tincture?
Created with a small piece of your placenta tinctured in vodka, a placenta tincture is a great way to extract the many benefits and uses from the placenta, while giving it almost indefinite shelf life (as long as it is stored properly). Great for colds, energy boosts, indigestion, stress, PMS, depression and menopause. Even the biological daughter can use her mother's tincture to relieve her own PMS symptoms. Take 7-10 drops 3-4 times a day, or as needed. The best ingestion method is to put the drops under the tongue and hold for 60 seconds. You can also mix drops with a bit of juice or water, but this will dilute the tincture and cause it to become less effective. The mother may also give the tincture to a baby, 6 months or older, for teething, transitional periods, stress and to boost the immune system. The dosage for a healthy child is 3-5 drops mixed with breast milk, water or juice. It is also possible to heat the tincture to burn off the alcohol content. Do not exceed dosage. Store in cool, dark area.
Why should I get a salve?
A salve, or balm, made of your placenta and a variety of healing herbs and oils offers healing properties to:
C-section scars once they close, hemorrhoids, perineal tearing, cracked or blistered nipples, eczema, sunburn, diaper rash (cloth diaper safe!), skin irritation and more. You have the option to choose which herbs are added to your salve, such as lavender, chamomile, calendula, comfy and plantain. Essential oils can also be added to boost therapeutic qualities. Think of the salve as a super healing, natural triple antibiotic ointment!
Stores for 6 months in cool dark place. Keeps longer in fridge. You will be able to tell when it goes bad by it's smell.
What is in the little bag?
If you choose to have the umbilical cord returned, it will be dehydrated into a shape or symbol and returned to you with the rest of your items. Your baby’s umbilical cord has been dried into a heart or spiral as a keepsake. Some mothers chose to include them in baby books, keepsake boxes or bury them ceremonially. What you chose to do with it is your choice. In certain cultures it is tradition to bury the cord as a sign to keep the child grounded throughout their life and ensure they always return home.
What about the amount of progesterone in the placenta? Will it decrease my milk supply?
After birth of your baby and the delivery of the placenta, the sudden drop in progesterone is one of the triggers for full milk production. So there is some dispute if the levels of progesterone contained in the placenta will hinder breast milk production instead of increase it (one of the reported benefits of placenta consumption) When a mother is consuming her placenta postpartum, such as in capsules, her body is not retaining enough progesterone to have a significant effect on her milk production. Even if the placenta did have a high amount of residual progesterone, many mothers are still able to breastfeed through gestation, when progesterone levels are highest. One would also think it would cause an issue in mammalian species that eat their entire placenta raw immediately post birth. However, they do not suffer negative impact. You also have to consider the way in which this natural progesterone is being taken into the body. When the placenta is embedded in the uterine lining, it is directly releasing the chemical compounds into the mother's bloodstream. When you are swallowing a placenta capsule, it is working through the various stages of the digestive tract, therefore being processed indirectly. The progesterone found in encapsulated placenta can boost natural serotonin levels and is designed to work alongside oxytocin postpartum, aiding the mother in bonding, energy and sufficient healing. It is very rare that a mother reports a decrease in milk supply while taking her capsules, but it does happen. This is when it is important to listen to your body and adjust your intake as needed.
The information on this page has not been evaluated by the FDA due to the nature of this service. W ⋅ I ⋅S ⋅ E Women Informed, Supported & Empowered makes no medical treatment claims. Services provided are not clinical, pharmaceutical, or intended to diagnose or treat any condition. Women who chose to utilize the services on this page take full responsibility for their own health while consuming their placenta and product usage. Check with your health care provider to be sure your placenta is healthy and safe to consume/use.