Placenta encapsulation is the process of preparing your placenta after birth by cleaning, steaming (depending on the preparation method), dehydrating, grinding it into a fine powder, and placing it into capsules.

Many families choose placenta encapsulation as part of their postpartum traditions or because they hope it may support their recovery after birth.

While many parents report positive personal experiences, current scientific research has not confirmed these benefits, and more high-quality studies are needed.

Families choose placenta encapsulation for many different reasons.

Some parents report that placenta capsules helped them:

🤍 Feel more energized during postpartum recovery

🤍 Support their emotional well-being

🤍 Promote milk production

🤍 Replenish iron after birth

🤍 Support hormone balance

🤍 Feel more connected to their postpartum recovery

🤍 Honor cultural, spiritual, or family traditions

Every postpartum experience is unique. While many families share positive experiences, it's important to understand that these reports are largely based on personal experiences rather than strong scientific evidence.

Current research tells us:

✔ There is no strong scientific evidence that placenta encapsulation improves postpartum recovery.

✔ Research has not consistently shown improvements in milk supply, postpartum depression, anxiety, fatigue, hormone balance, or iron levels.

✔ Most reported benefits come from personal experiences instead of large clinical studies.

This does not necessarily mean placenta encapsulation doesn't help some individuals it simply means researchers have not been able to consistently demonstrate these benefits in high-quality studies.

More research is needed.

Placenta encapsulation is considered a personal wellness choice not a medical treatment.

It may not be recommended if:

• Your placenta is sent to pathology.

• You or your baby have a suspected or confirmed infection.

• The placenta has not been stored properly after birth.

• Your healthcare provider recommends against placenta consumption.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported a case of bacterial contamination linked to improperly prepared placenta capsules. Proper handling, refrigeration, and preparation are essential.

We always encourage families to discuss placenta encapsulation with their healthcare provider before making a decision.

Our service includes:

✓ Placenta pickup from your hospital, birth center, or home

✓ Professional preparation and encapsulation

✓ Capsule container

✓ Written storage instructions

✓ Return of your completed capsules

Optional keepsakes may also be available, including:

• Placenta Prints

• Umbilical Cord Keepsakes

• Placenta Tinctures

Step 1

Reserve your placenta encapsulation before your due date.

Step 2

Let your birth team know you plan to keep your placenta.

Step 3

Store your placenta according to the instructions provided after birth.

Step 4

Our team coordinates pickup.

Step 5

Your completed placenta capsules are returned to you.

Does placenta encapsulation increase milk supply?

Current research has not demonstrated a consistent increase in milk production.

Can placenta capsules prevent postpartum depression?

There is currently no strong scientific evidence showing placenta encapsulation prevents postpartum depression or anxiety.

Are there proven health benefits?

At this time, there is insufficient scientific evidence to confirm measurable health benefits from placenta encapsulation.

Is placenta encapsulation safe?

Safety depends on proper handling, refrigeration, preparation, and your individual medical circumstances. It may not be appropriate for every family.

Can I encapsulate my placenta after a hospital birth?

In many cases, yes. Most hospitals allow families to take their placenta home after completing a placenta release form, though policies vary by hospital.

At Rebecca Rose Doula Services, we believe every family deserves honest, evidence-informed education.

Some families choose placenta encapsulation because of cultural traditions, personal beliefs, or previous experiences. Others decide it's not the right choice for them.

Our role is never to persuade you one way or the other. Instead, we provide transparent information, answer your questions, and support whatever decision feels right for you in partnership with your healthcare provider.

Evidence Based Birth®

An excellent summary of the current evidence, including the history of placenta encapsulation, available research, and known limitations.

American Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology

Human Placentophagy: A Review

A comprehensive review that concluded there is currently no high-quality scientific evidence supporting clinical benefits of placenta consumption and recommended additional research.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Human Placenta Consumption and Risk for Neonatal Group B Streptococcus Infection

This report discusses a case of bacterial contamination associated with improperly prepared placenta capsules and emphasizes the importance of safe preparation practices.