FAQs
Why should I choose you?
Professional, discreet and safe services. Unless given permission, I never advertise who my clients are or the services I supplied them with.
High Safety Standards. I take my business very seriously and never cut corners with safety, cleanliness and health concerns involved with placenta encapsulation. Each one is processed with the same amount of caution and love and is always done in a sanitized environment with sanitized equipment.
Triple Certified. W ⋅ I ⋅S ⋅ E Women Informed, Supported & Empowered has certified with International Placenta & Postpartum Association, OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens & Infection Control, and ServSafe Food Safety and follows high safety standards when processing each placenta.
Peace of Mind. Because only one placenta is processed at a time, you will have no doubts that the products you receive contain your placenta and you know exactly under what conditions the processing was completed.
Where do you travel?
I serve Fort Meade, Maryland, DC and the surrounding areas. This includes hospitals, birth centers, and home births.
Where can I find your service contract?
After you register for services you will receive a confirmation email with a link to a page on our website that will contain our contract.
I don't really want the placenta prepared in my house, but how do I know for sure I get mine back?
I totally understand your concern about wanting to ensure your placenta is in your capsules. I have a single-placenta-in-process policy. That means I never ever process more than one placenta at a time. If two women birth at once I always process the first, deliver it back, disinfect and then start the second. Each placenta stays in their own labeled containers and never get misplaced. In all the placentas I have had the pleasure of processing, I have never had a mix up or even come close to having a mix up. I treat your placenta exactly the way I would want mine to be treated. It is very simple and straightforward process. Your placenta receives the exact same undivided attention to detail no matter where it is encapsulated. Let me know if you have any other questions at all. It's important to me that every single client feels their concerns are addressed. We are always happy to prepare your placenta in your home if that is what you prefer.
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:
Day One
What type of supplies are used and how are they disinfected?
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.
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 3 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 3 days. And after 3 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 hours of the birth. That being said, birth is a busy time and sometimes the 24 hour guideline is impossible due to whatever reasons that are happening at the moment. So, best case scenario is for the placenta to be prepared for encapsulation within the first threedays after birth. The placenta should be stored in the refrigerator until I arrive.
If it is not possible to start the process within the three 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. Personally, I prefer doing the encapsulation in my own home, in my own area that is designated 100% for placenta encapsulation. This is because I can control the environment and make sure everything is smooth running and remains disinfected. When you have a newborn, the last thing you want to do is baby sit a dehydrator and make sure that no animals get into it, or go near it (like curious cats who love the smell of meat), that no children with curious hands touch anything, that no well meaning visitors actually unplug it when trying to help clean or prepare a meal, or that it remains running at the proper temperature for the accurate time frame. But it is entirely up to you. As long as you specialist follows universal protocols then either way is equally safe.
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 capsules 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! Please make sure your provider knows you intend on keeping your placenta to make the process more smooth.
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. The placentas job is to keep the fetal and maternal blood separated while simultaneously allowing oxygen and nutrients to pass to the baby while remove carbon dioxide and other waste products. So while the placenta does prevent some toxins from passing through to the baby, the placenta does not store them. They are processed through the mothers own liver and kidneys and then eliminated. 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. Also, please check out our section on placenta research for more information. Read this article for more information about bacteria and heavy metals in the placenta.
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. Sometimes there are more capsules, sometimes there are less. It just depends on the size of the 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 varies 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.
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 choose our flavored capsules. Taking your capsules with food or juice may also help to prevent any aftertaste. However, we also offer flavored capsules that some women prefer to use to help mask any taste.
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 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!), cradle cap, skin irritation and more. You have the option to choose which herbs are added to your salve, such as lavender, chamomile, calendula, comfrey and plantain. Essential oils can also be added to boost therapeutic qualities.
Stores for 6 months in cool dark place. Keeps longer in fridge. Discard if foul odor becomes present.
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.
Professional, discreet and safe services. Unless given permission, I never advertise who my clients are or the services I supplied them with.
High Safety Standards. I take my business very seriously and never cut corners with safety, cleanliness and health concerns involved with placenta encapsulation. Each one is processed with the same amount of caution and love and is always done in a sanitized environment with sanitized equipment.
Triple Certified. W ⋅ I ⋅S ⋅ E Women Informed, Supported & Empowered has certified with International Placenta & Postpartum Association, OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens & Infection Control, and ServSafe Food Safety and follows high safety standards when processing each placenta.
Peace of Mind. Because only one placenta is processed at a time, you will have no doubts that the products you receive contain your placenta and you know exactly under what conditions the processing was completed.
Where do you travel?
I serve Fort Meade, Maryland, DC and the surrounding areas. This includes hospitals, birth centers, and home births.
Where can I find your service contract?
After you register for services you will receive a confirmation email with a link to a page on our website that will contain our contract.
I don't really want the placenta prepared in my house, but how do I know for sure I get mine back?
I totally understand your concern about wanting to ensure your placenta is in your capsules. I have a single-placenta-in-process policy. That means I never ever process more than one placenta at a time. If two women birth at once I always process the first, deliver it back, disinfect and then start the second. Each placenta stays in their own labeled containers and never get misplaced. In all the placentas I have had the pleasure of processing, I have never had a mix up or even come close to having a mix up. I treat your placenta exactly the way I would want mine to be treated. It is very simple and straightforward process. Your placenta receives the exact same undivided attention to detail no matter where it is encapsulated. Let me know if you have any other questions at all. It's important to me that every single client feels their concerns are addressed. We are always happy to prepare your placenta in your home if that is what you prefer.
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:
- 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.
- Evidence of maternal or infant infection during delivery or immediately postpartum. An active infection makes the placenta unfit for consumption because of the risks involved. It is advised that a mother alerts her specialist if either she or the baby need treatment for anything.
- Here is a great article about GBS and Placenta Encapsulation
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 Gentle Method (this step is skipped if choosing raw method)
- Placenta is sliced thinly and placed into the dehydrator where it will dehydrate at 160 degrees 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 disinfected?
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.
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 3 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 3 days. And after 3 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 hours of the birth. That being said, birth is a busy time and sometimes the 24 hour guideline is impossible due to whatever reasons that are happening at the moment. So, best case scenario is for the placenta to be prepared for encapsulation within the first threedays after birth. The placenta should be stored in the refrigerator until I arrive.
If it is not possible to start the process within the three 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. Personally, I prefer doing the encapsulation in my own home, in my own area that is designated 100% for placenta encapsulation. This is because I can control the environment and make sure everything is smooth running and remains disinfected. When you have a newborn, the last thing you want to do is baby sit a dehydrator and make sure that no animals get into it, or go near it (like curious cats who love the smell of meat), that no children with curious hands touch anything, that no well meaning visitors actually unplug it when trying to help clean or prepare a meal, or that it remains running at the proper temperature for the accurate time frame. But it is entirely up to you. As long as you specialist follows universal protocols then either way is equally safe.
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 capsules 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! Please make sure your provider knows you intend on keeping your placenta to make the process more smooth.
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. The placentas job is to keep the fetal and maternal blood separated while simultaneously allowing oxygen and nutrients to pass to the baby while remove carbon dioxide and other waste products. So while the placenta does prevent some toxins from passing through to the baby, the placenta does not store them. They are processed through the mothers own liver and kidneys and then eliminated. 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. Also, please check out our section on placenta research for more information. Read this article for more information about bacteria and heavy metals in the placenta.
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. Sometimes there are more capsules, sometimes there are less. It just depends on the size of the 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 varies 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 (Gentle Method 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)
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 choose our flavored capsules. Taking your capsules with food or juice may also help to prevent any aftertaste. However, we also offer flavored capsules that some women prefer to use to help mask any taste.
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 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!), cradle cap, skin irritation and more. You have the option to choose which herbs are added to your salve, such as lavender, chamomile, calendula, comfrey and plantain. Essential oils can also be added to boost therapeutic qualities.
Stores for 6 months in cool dark place. Keeps longer in fridge. Discard if foul odor becomes present.
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.
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.
