When did the trend of consuming placenta become so popular? It likely gained traction after a celebrity shared her experience, though pinpointing the exact moment it entered the mainstream is tricky. Today, you can find Etsy shops selling placenta art, advertisements for “placenta encapsulation” services, and even partners who have admitted to trying this organ themselves. A team of researchers set out to determine if there is any scientific backing for the purported benefits of postpartum placenta consumption. Spoiler alert: there isn’t.
There are no established medical advantages to consuming something that has been filtering your baby’s waste for months. Moreover, the safety of this practice remains unverified. Advocates argue that eating the placenta can enhance energy levels, boost milk production, and stabilize hormones, potentially reducing the risk of postpartum depression. However, a study from Northwestern University reviewed ten published papers on placentophagy—commonly referred to as “eating your own placenta”—and found no evidence to support any of these claims. Dr. Anna Martinez from the study commented, “While many women report perceived benefits, systematic research on the risks and benefits of ingesting placenta is lacking.”
“The rise in popularity over the past few years seems to stem from media influences rather than scientific discussions with healthcare providers,” she noted. Adding to the confusion, Cynthia Brown, another researcher, pointed out, “There are currently no regulations on how placentas are stored and prepared, which leads to inconsistent dosing. Women often don’t know what they are really consuming.”
I recall a conversation on a parenting forum before my first child was born. One woman passionately claimed that eating your placenta was a miraculous cure-all. This was a few years ago, long before it became a fashionable practice, and I was taken aback by her fervor for consuming something that had just exited her body. She wasn’t referring to encapsulation or smoothies; she was talking about biting into it right after delivery—an alarming thought.
Although I was intrigued by the idea when pregnant with my second child, the reality of the process deterred me. My midwife recommended a doula who offered placenta encapsulation as part of her package. The prospect of receiving pills made from my placenta for free was tempting, but I quickly realized I’d have to arrange for its transport and preparation, which seemed too complicated for me.
Many proponents argue that animals in the wild eat their placentas, suggesting it’s a natural practice. However, the reasons behind this behavior are unclear; it might be a protective instinct against predators. Furthermore, the “they do it, so it must be good” argument is not particularly compelling, considering animals also engage in behaviors that humans avoid, like consuming their own waste.
Ultimately, the choice is yours. The findings from the study may help you weigh whether the placenta-eating trend is worth considering. For more information on home insemination, check out this post on at-home intracervical insemination kits. You can also find inspiration from Emily and Sarah’s journey toward parenthood, which is an insightful read on this topic. Additionally, if you’re seeking reliable information on pregnancy and fertility, the NHS provides excellent resources.
Summary
The trend of consuming placenta has gained popularity, often fueled by celebrity influence, despite a lack of scientific evidence supporting its benefits. Studies have shown no medical advantages, and concerns regarding safety and preparation persist. While some may argue that animals do it, this reasoning is not convincing. Ultimately, individuals should carefully consider whether this practice is worthwhile.