Although placenta encapsulation has not been evaluated by the FDA and research is ongoing, many individuals report the following potential benefits:

1. Hormonal Balance

   • The placenta contains hormones like estrogen and progesterone, which may help regulate postpartum mood swings.

   • Studies suggest that the placenta has high levels of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which could help reduce stress.

2. Increased Energy

   • Some parents report a boost in energy levels, possibly due to the iron and vitamin B12 found in the placenta.

   • A 2017 study published in Women and Birth found that placenta capsules may help replenish iron stores in postpartum mothers.

3. Reduction in Postpartum Depression

   • Anecdotal evidence suggests consuming placenta capsules may lower the risk of postpartum depression by supporting hormonal balance.

   • According to the CDC, 1 in 8 women experience postpartum depression, and placenta encapsulation is often explored as a complementary support option.

4. Improved Lactation

   • The placenta contains prolactin, a hormone associated with milk production. Many parents report an easier breastfeeding journey after consuming placenta capsules.

5. Enhanced Recovery

   • Placenta encapsulation may help speed up recovery by providing nutrients that support uterine contraction and physical healing.

While the benefits of placenta encapsulation are supported primarily by anecdotal evidence, research is emerging:

• A 2016 study in The American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology found that placenta capsules contained trace amounts of iron and hormones, which could contribute to postpartum health.

• A survey of over 200 women in Ecology of Food and Nutrition found that 97% of participants who consumed their placenta reported positive experiences, citing improved mood and energy.

Our placenta encapsulation process is simple and safe:

1. Pickup: After birth, we arrange for the pickup of your placenta, which must be stored on ice or refrigerated.

2. Preparation: We follow strict safety protocols to prepare and encapsulate your placenta using the raw method.

3. Delivery: Your capsules are delivered to you within one week, ready to support your postpartum recovery.

Why Choose Us?

At Nurtured Beginnings Doula Care, LLC, your safety and satisfaction are our top priorities.

Certified Expertise

• Certified in Placenta Processing

• Certified in Bloodborne Pathogens

• Certified in Food Handling

One Placenta at a Time

• We process only one placenta at a time.

• If two clients give birth on the same day, we complete the first placenta, fully disinfect the workspace, and then begin the second. This guarantees your placenta will never be mixed up or cross-contaminated.

We adhere to the highest safety standards to ensure your placenta is processed in a clean and safe environment:

• Preparation surfaces are cleaned before and after with a bleach solution followed by a clean water rinse to remove bleach residue.

• Disposable items are used wherever possible, including cutting tools, cutting boards, steaming trays, cleaning sponges, and paper towels.

• Reusable equipment is disinfected with bleach following OSHA and EPA guidelines.

• Concentrated bleach (8.25% sodium hypochlorite) is used instead of standard bleach (3-6%) for extra safety.

• Non-disposable equipment is replaced frequently.

• Encapsulators wear full personal protective equipment (PPE).

What if I test positive for Group B Strep?
Testing positive for GBS is not a sign of an active infection and does not prevent placenta encapsulation.

I am banking cord blood. Can I still encapsulate?
Yes! Cord blood collection happens immediately after birth, typically while the placenta is still inside you. This process does not compromise the placenta in any way.

How should I store my placenta until you pick it up?
Your care provider will place your placenta in a plastic container or sealed bag. You will need to keep it in a cooler with ice until we pick it up. Please keep the placenta with you in your cooler and not in a hospital lab or refrigeration unit outside your room.

How many capsules will I get?
The number of capsules depends on the size of your placenta. Larger placentas, often from bigger babies, yield more capsules. On average, raw preparation yields 125-150 capsules.

Can I encapsulate after a Cesarean?
Yes! How you deliver your baby does not affect your ability to encapsulate. However, if an infection caused the Cesarean, encapsulation may not be possible. Contact us to discuss the safest way forward.

Placenta encapsulation is a deeply personal decision. While it offers potential benefits, we encourage you to consult with your healthcare provider to determine if it aligns with your postpartum care plan.

At Nurtured Beginnings Doula Care, LLC, we’re here to provide you with safe, informed, and compassionate support throughout your postpartum journey.