Why Would You Encapsulate Your Placenta? (And How to Decide if it’s Right for You)

Placenta encapsulation has been practiced in many cultures around the world, from mammals in nature to Traditional Chinese Medicine. While it might seem unfamiliar at first, modern research and technology have allowed us to explore the potential benefits of consuming the placenta after birth. As a birth professional in Guam, I’m passionate about helping families understand these benefits and decide if it’s the right choice for them.

Often, the first question I hear is, “Why would I do that?” My response is simple—if it’s not something you're interested in, that’s perfectly okay!

But if you’re curious, here are some reasons you might consider encapsulating your placenta:

- Hormonal Support: The placenta contains hormones like Prostaglandin, which helps your uterus contract and reduce postpartum bleeding, and Oxytocin, which promotes bonding between you and your baby.

- Mood and Energy Balance: Many mothers report feeling more balanced emotionally, experiencing fewer mood swings, and getting better sleep after taking placenta capsules.

- Immune and Healing Properties: Your placenta is rich in anti-inflammatory properties that can help with healing after childbirth and boost your immune response.

- Breastfeeding Support: Placenta capsules may help you establish breastfeeding and maintain a healthy milk supply.

- Nutritional Benefits: The placenta is full of essential nutrients, including iron and B vitamins, which can aid in postpartum recovery.

Placenta encapsulation in Guam is handled with care and professionalism. It’s important to note that this is not an unsanitary practice. The encapsulation process is done under strict conditions to ensure the highest standards of safety and cleanliness. The capsules themselves don’t look or smell like a placenta, making it easy to take them as part of your postpartum routine. If preferred, I also offer flavored and colorful capsules for a more pleasant experience.

Additional Placenta Preparation Methods

While encapsulation is the most popular option, there are other ways to utilize your placenta postpartum. For example:

- Placenta Smoothie: A placenta smoothie can be blended and stored in ice trays for quick use. This method offers a fast nutrient boost and is especially useful if you’re experiencing heavy postpartum bleeding.

- Placenta Truffles: For those who prefer not to swallow pills, no-bake placenta truffles are a tasty alternative. These can be frozen and consumed as needed, providing the same benefits as capsules.

- Placenta Tincture: A placenta tincture is made by soaking a raw piece of the placenta in high-proof alcohol for at least six weeks. This tincture can last indefinitely and be used in small doses over the years, even to alleviate PMS symptoms later in life.

- Placenta Salve: Placenta salves, made with dried placenta capsules, beeswax, shea butter, and healing herbs, are wonderful for postpartum recovery, including C-section scars and perineal tears. It can also be used later to soothe menstrual cramps or hemorrhoids.

Honoring the Placenta

For those who wish to honor their placenta beyond consumption, there are several creative ways to preserve this special part of your birth journey. You can make placenta prints, preserve the umbilical cord in a shape (like a heart or dreamcatcher), or even plant the placenta at the base of a tree to symbolize new life.

Empowering Your Postpartum Journey

Placenta encapsulation is about more than just consuming a part of your body—it’s about honoring the connection between you and your baby. It’s about choosing natural, body-made supplements that are perfectly designed to support your postpartum recovery. It’s also about respecting cultural and personal traditions in a way that feels right for you.

I offer professional placenta encapsulation services in Guam, ensuring safe, clean, and personalized care for every family. If you’re interested in learning more, I’d love to answer your questions and help you decide if placenta encapsulation is right for you. Contact me today for details!