-increased milk production

-improved mood

-increased energy levels

-restoration of iron levels in the blood

-reduced postpartum bleeding

-faster healing and uterine involution

Our placentas contain many nutrients and hormones that are thought to provide benefits in the postpartum period:

-Cortisone: combats stress and is energy boosting.

-Gamma Globulin: immunity booster.

-Gonadotropin: the precursor to estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.

-Hemoglobin: replenishes iron.

-Interferon: stimulates the immune system.

-Oxytocin: produced during breastfeeding to facilitate bonding of mother and infant.

-Prolactin: promotes lactation.

-Prostaglandins: anti-inflammatory.

-TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): boosts energy and helps with recovery from stress.

-Urokinase inhibiting factor and factor XIII: stops bleeding and enhances wound healing.

After birth, I will collect your placenta as soon as possible after receiving your phone call. Your placenta will be transported in a freezer-size, food safe Ziploc bag inside of a tight-fitting cooler with ice. Your placenta will be immediately refrigerated while my work space and tools are prepared, and the encapsulation process will begin as soon as possible. I will begin the process with inspecting and gently rinsing the placenta. Following the inspection, I process the placenta utilizing the Traditional Chinese Method which focuses on steaming the placenta with herbs and oils. Once the placenta is steamed, it will go into the dehydrator. Once fully dehydrated it will be blended up and put into capsules. In most cases, you will receive your finished placenta pills within 48-72 hours. Placenta tinctures do take a bit longer to process and will be sent to you about 6-8 weeks after you have delivered.

Placenta encapsulation is an under-researched and often misunderstood practice. When done correctly, it is not likely to be dangerous. The most common reported negative side effects include nausea, stomach discomfort, headache, or anxiety. Cross contamination from blood borne pathogens or unsafe food preparation practices can result in a potential for more serious complications; this is why I follow strict safety, sanitization, OSHA-approved food preparation practices. I am also Bloodborne Pathogen trained & certified. My policy does not allow for multiple placentas to be in my possession at any time, eliminating the possibility for cross-contamination or mixups.