Can I Keep My Placenta? The Benefits and Risks
When it comes to childbirth, there are many decisions to be made. One decision that is becoming increasingly popular is whether or not to keep the placenta after birth. The placenta is an organ that connects the developing fetus to the uterine wall to allow nutrient uptake, waste elimination, and gas exchange via the mother’s blood supply. In this article, we will explore the benefits and risks associated with keeping your placenta after birth.
What is a placenta?
The placenta is an organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy. It allows nutrients, oxygen, and waste products to be exchanged between the mother and the developing fetus. The placenta is attached to the uterine wall and is connected to the fetus via the umbilical cord. After the baby is born, the placenta is delivered separately from the baby via the birth canal.
What are the benefits of keeping your placenta?
Many women believe that keeping their placenta after birth can have numerous benefits. Here are some of the most commonly cited benefits:
- Rich in nutrients: The placenta contains a variety of nutrients, including iron, protein, and vitamins B6 and B12. Some believe that consuming the placenta after birth can help replenish nutrients lost during childbirth.
- Balancing hormones: The placenta contains hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Some believe that consuming the placenta after birth can help balance hormones and alleviate postpartum mood changes and depression.
- Increased milk production: Some women believe that consuming the placenta after birth can help increase milk production.
- Memorabilia: Some women choose to keep their placenta as a keepsake or for cultural or spiritual reasons.
What are the risks of keeping your placenta?
While some women swear by consuming their placenta after birth, there are also risks to consider. Here are some of the most commonly cited risks:
- Contamination: The placenta can carry harmful bacteria or viruses, such as Group B streptococcus, which could potentially infect both the mother and the baby if not handled properly.
- Regulations: There are no regulations regarding the handling, storage, or consumption of placenta. This means that there is no guarantee that your placenta will be handled safely.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may have an allergic reaction to consuming placenta.
How can I keep my placenta safe?
If you choose to keep your placenta after birth, there are some precautions you can take to ensure that it is handled safely:
- Consult a professional: If you are considering consuming your placenta, it is recommended that you consult with a professional who is trained in placenta encapsulation or other preparations.
- Proper handling: The placenta should be handled properly to prevent contamination. It should be refrigerated or frozen immediately after birth and prepared as soon as possible.
- Thorough cooking: If you plan to consume your placenta, it is recommended that it be cooked thoroughly to reduce the risk of infection.
What are the different ways to consume the placenta?
If you decide to consume your placenta, there are several ways to do so. Here are some of the most common methods:
- Encapsulation: This involves dehydrating the placenta, grinding it into a powder, and placing it in capsules for oral consumption.
- Smoothies: Some women blend small pieces of their placenta into a smoothie with fruits and vegetables.
- Raw: While this is not recommended due to the risk of infection, some women choose to eat small pieces of their placenta raw.
- Cooked: Some women choose to cook their placenta and consume it in a meal, such as a stir-fry or stew.
Can I donate my placenta?
If you choose not to keep your placenta, you may be able to donate it to a placenta donation program. Placenta donation can be used for medical research or to create stem cell treatments. However, not all hospitals have placenta donation programs, and there may be specific requirements that you must meet to be eligible to donate your placenta.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the decision to keep your placenta after birth is a personal one that should be based on individual preferences and beliefs. While there are potential benefits to consuming the placenta, it is important to weigh these against the potential risks. Consult with a professional and take precautions to ensure safe handling and preparation if you choose to consume your placenta. And, if you choose not to keep your placenta, consider donating it if possible to contribute to medical research.
List of common questions and answers
-
Q: What nutrients are in the placenta?
A: The placenta contains a variety of nutrients, including iron, protein, and vitamins B6 and B12. -
Q: Can consuming the placenta help with postpartum depression?
A: Some women believe that consuming the placenta after birth can help balance hormones and alleviate postpartum mood changes and depression. -
Q: Is there a risk of infection if I consume my placenta?
A: Yes, the placenta can carry harmful bacteria or viruses, so it is important to handle and prepare it properly to reduce the risk of infection. -
Q: Can I donate my placenta?
A: Yes, some hospitals have placenta donation programs that can be used for medical research or to create stem cell treatments. -
Q: Is it safe to eat my placenta raw?
A: No, it is not recommended to eat the placenta raw due to the risk of infection. It should be cooked thoroughly before consumption.
References
- Azarang, A., & Ghorbani, R. (2019). The effects of placenta consumption on mood and hormone levels postpartum: A pilot study. Journal of family medicine and primary care, 8(11), 3488.
- Benyshek, D. C., & Benskey, M. J. (2018). The evolution of placentophagy: A metabolic pathway to neuroprotection? Medical hypotheses, 119, 41-46.
- Kennedy, H. P., & McCarron-Green, P. (2018). Practice recommendations for placenta encapsulation. Journal of midwifery & women’s health, 63(3), 347-353.