If you’ve been exploring holistic postpartum recovery options, chances are you’ve stumbled across the term “placenta encapsulation.” And while it might sound like something straight out of a sci-fi novel, it’s actually an ancient practice making a big comeback in modern times. For moms in the Vancouver, WA, and Portland metro areas, placenta pills are becoming the go-to postpartum superhero – and for a good reason! There are many benefits of placenta encapsulation and we will guide you through!
First Things First: What Are Placenta Pills?
Placenta pills are exactly what they sound like: capsules made from your very own placenta after it’s been cleaned, dehydrated, and ground into a fine powder. Yes, it might sound a little unconventional at first, but before you dismiss the idea, consider this.
Mammals (yes, even your furry doggo friend) have been consuming their placentas for centuries. Why? Nature rarely wastes anything, especially something as nutrient-rich as the placenta! Consuming the placenta might be a natural process of mother nature, but eating it raw very much is not for moms!
This is where putting the benefits of the placenta into a capsule form comes in! Placenta encapsulation takes this tradition and gives it a modern twist that’s clean, convenient, and—believe it or not—empowering for moms. Think of them as the ultimate multitasking supplement for your postpartum body.
Top Benefits of Placenta Encapsulation
While we could write an epic poem about how amazing placenta pills are, let’s focus on some key benefits backed by moms and holistic health enthusiasts alike.
1. Supports Hormonal Balance
After childbirth, your hormone levels drop faster than the bass at a dance party. Estrogen, progesterone, and other key hormones that your placenta produced during pregnancy take a nosedive, which can leave many moms feeling the notorious baby blues. Placenta encapsulation provides a natural boost by giving your body back some of those hormones to help smooth out that hormonal rollercoaster.
2. Boosts Energy Levels
Let’s face it: new moms are basically running on adrenaline, caffeine, and hope. Placenta pills can help provide an extra dose of iron and other nutrients that combat postpartum fatigue. It’s like a mini energy boost in every capsule.
Because the iron in the placenta is bio-identical to the mom, it’s very easily absorbed. Iron supplements can be hard to take and not easily absorbed, and the iron in the placenta makes things a lot easier for new moms.
3. May Help With Milk Production
For moms planning to breastfeed, milk supply is always a top concern. While every mom’s experience is unique, some report increased milk production thanks to placenta encapsulation. This also might be why mammals such as horses and deer, also consume the placenta immediately after birth.
The placenta is full of prolactin, the hormone in charge of milk supply. Moms often report an increase in milk production when taking their placenta pills and are so grateful they have this natural medicine.
4. Postpartum Recovery Support
Giving birth is a heroic feat that’ll have your body calling for reinforcements. Enter placenta pills: rich in iron, protein, and hormones, they’re designed to aid in replenishing your body’s natural reserves and speeding up postpartum recovery.
One of the main hormones in the placenta is Oxytocin. Oxytocin is the love-hormone, the feel good, calming hormone that chills everyone out and makes you feel happy. Moms report a feeling of groundedness and calm when taking placenta pills – and we think it could very well be the oxytocin that they are receiving from their placenta pills.
5. May Reduce Postpartum Depression Symptoms
While research on this is still growing, anecdotal evidence suggests that placenta encapsulation can help ease postpartum mood swings. Many moms have reported feeling calmer, more centered, and less weepy when taking their placenta pills—a win-win for mom and baby!
We have met many moms who struggled with Postpartum Anxiety and Postpartum Depression after their first pregnancy. They will do ANYTHING to help reduce the risk for their next child so they reach out for placenta encapsulation services! This is when we get to hear first-hand stories of how much better they feel taking placenta pills compared to the time they didn’t. This brings us so much joy to hear!
Placenta Encapsulation Methods: The Breakdown
In the Vancouver, WA, and Portland area, midwives and doctors are very supportive of your right to keep your placenta. They have protocols for packaging it up safely and it doesn’t require any work on your end. You just need to text us after your baby is born!
After you choose to encapsulate, you get to choose the method of preparation method. Here’s the 101 on the different options you have for your placenta pills.
1. Traditional Chinese Medicine Method (we call it the Balanced Method)
The placenta is gently steamed before being dehydrated. This method is thought to add warmth to your postpartum recovery. Due to the steam, it also tones down the intensity and therefore can be a good fit for people that are highly sensitive to caffeine, or panic attacks. We also recommend this if you are Group B Strep as a second line of defense, not needed but we add it to ensure the safety of our clients.
2. Dehydration Method (we call it the Gentle Method)
In this method, the placenta is dehydrated at a 160 degrees, without steaming beforehand. It’s believed to retain more of the placenta’s natural nutrients and hormones, providing a bigger nutritional punch. This method also gives yields the most capsules….so more bang for your buck!
Both methods result in easy-to-swallow capsules that can be taken just like any other supplement.
Placenta Encapsulation Services in Vancouver, WA, and Portland Metro
So, you’re ready to try placenta encapsulation… but where do you start? Lucky for you, the Pacific Northwest is a hub for holistic health, and there are several trusted professionals who specialize in this service. Here’s how to find the right provider:
- Research Local Placenta Encapsulation Experts: Services in Vancouver and Portland are known for their top-notch quality and professionalism. Look for certified specialists who follow strict sanitation practices.
- Ask About Pickup Services: Many providers will come to the hospital or your home to pick up your placenta and return the capsules within a few days. Talk about convenience!
- Check Reviews: A quick online search can give you insight into other moms’ experiences with different providers in the area. Word of mouth is gold. [Check out our 5-star reviews on GOOGLE]
- Book Ahead: Believe it or not, placenta encapsulation services can get pretty busy, so it’s worth reserving your spot before baby arrives.
FAQs About Placenta Pills
Will It Taste Weird?
Nope! We tell people it’s often like an iron or multivitamin. Throw it down with some water or juice and there is no taste. At Baby Nest Birth Services, we offer flavoured capsules as well! Thi helps moms who might be worried about the taste. Grape, Berry, Mint and Bubblegum are just a few of the options for placenta pills.
Ready to reserve placenta services for your due date? Get started HERE!
Is It Safe?
Absolutely—as long as you choose a trained and certified specialist! We will ensure your placenta is prepared using safe, sterile methods. Not all people who encapsulate are certified or trained. It’s important for your safety to hire someone with the right safety protocols. Cheaper is not always better!
Can Everyone Benefit From Placenta Encapsulation?
Most moms can benefit from using placenta pills, but there can be times when it’s contraindicated and not in the best interest for the mother. For parents who had a uterine infection, it would not be recommended to encapsulate. For clients who are induced due to Pre-eclampsia or High blood pressure, we walk them through when to start their placenta pills to ensure their blood pressure comes down first. Certified Placenta Specialists will able to answer questions and take in your specific health situations and let you know if encapsulation is beneficial or not.
How Many Capsules Will I Get?
It varies depending on the size of your placenta, but most moms receive between 100-200 capsules—enough to last for weeks or even months!
Placenta Medicine; a Natural Way to Support Your Postpartum
If the idea of placenta encapsulation has piqued your curiosity, why not give it a try? The benefits are mighty and can be a lot more of a natural way to support the body, compared to pharmaceutical options. Placenta pills offer a natural, personalized way to support your postpartum recovery, and countless moms in Vancouver, WA, and Portland are already singing their praises.
Read real-life testimonials from our 1000+ happy clients!
Ready to embrace the magic of your placenta superpower? With just a quick registration form, we await the birth of your baby. You give us a text and we will show up to start the placenta magic that day! With a little extra TLC (and maybe a placenta pill or two), you’ll be feeling strong to take on the new role of motherhood.
Ready to reserve your due date? Start HERE!
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