Placenta encapsulation is the process of preparing the placenta by steaming, dehydrating, and grinding it into a powder that is then placed into capsules for consumption. The purpose of ingestion of the placenta is to reintroduce beneficial hormones, proteins and other nutrients to the body following labor and birth to help restore balance and provide an overall feeling of wellness to aid in the transition between pregnancy and the early postpartum period. All preparation is done within your home over the course of two days (about 2 hrs each day).
 

Benefits of Placenta Encapsulation

1. Hormonal Balance 
   The placenta is rich in hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and oxytocin. Consuming placenta capsules may help replenish these hormones, which can drop significantly after childbirth, potentially reducing mood swings, irritability, and postpartum depression.

2. Increased Energy 
   Iron levels often decrease during childbirth due to blood loss. The placenta contains iron, which may help combat fatigue and restore energy levels for new parents adjusting to life with a newborn.

3. Enhanced Milk Production
   Some parents report an increase in breast milk supply after consuming placenta capsules. This may be due to the hormones and nutrients in the placenta that support lactation.

4. Reduction in Postpartum Bleeding
   The placenta contains uterotonic agents that may assist the uterus in contracting and returning to its pre-pregnancy size more quickly, potentially reducing postpartum bleeding.

5. Stress Relief and Emotional Well-being
   The placenta is a source of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), which helps regulate the body’s stress response. Placenta encapsulation may aid in reducing stress and promoting emotional stability during the postpartum period.

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The Placenta Encapsulation Process

1. Collection: The placenta is collected in a container or freezer bag and refrigerated, or stored in a cooler with ice, within 3-4 hours after birth

2. Preparation: The process will start ideally within 48 hours after birth. The placenta is drained of blood and thoroughly rinsed and then steamed 

3. Dehydration: The placenta is cut into thin slices and then dehydrated over night in the dehydrator

4. Grinding and Encapsulation: The dehydrated placenta is ground into a fine powder and placed into capsules

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Cost - $350 ($300 for doula clients of Empowered Birth and Beyond)