Although placenta remedies have been safely and successfully used worldwide for thousands of years, many women in our culture have never heard of using the placenta in this way (though this is quickly changing!). I understand that you may have many questions about placenta remedies, and I am happy to answer your questions as you explore whether placenta remedies are a good choice for you! Contact me to learn more.
What are the benefits of placenta remedies?Mothers who consume placenta capsules report earlier and enhanced breastmilk production, increased energy, decreased postpartum bleeding, and most notably, decreased postpartum emotional upheaval and “baby blues”. Mothers who consume placenta tincture report feeling less fatigued and moody, more emotionally balanced, and a decrease in common PMS symptoms. Some mothers report that consuming their tincture seems to ward off illness when they feel they are coming down with something.
Are these benefits supported by research?Many of the benefits of placentophagy are supported by peer-reviewed scientific research (see Research page for links), and the theories behind placentophagia are well supported. We know what hormones and other factors are present in raw placental tissue, and we know that synthetic forms of these hormones are successfully used to treat many of the symptoms that women experience in their postpartum recovery address. Preliminary results of research underway at the University of Nevada Las Vegas, are very promising, and show no adverse affects on placental factors as a result of the TCM preparation process. We do not, however, have a direct study quantifying the differences in PPD, breastmilk production, involution, lochia, etc, among large groups of women who either consumed or did not consume placenta remedies. Placenta remedies have a safe and successful written documentation of use since the 1600′s, however this type of wisdom was often passed from midwife to apprentice, and was not documented in many cases. Anecdotal evidence from mothers and midwives worldwide who use placenta remedies is very compelling, and I firmly believe in the benefits of these remedies. Unfortunately, research is expensive, and is largely funded by industry. Placentophagy is a woman-centred approach to postpartum recovery, with remedies that are not profitable for industry. Therefore funding for studies is severely limited, which has resulted in gaps in research. There is much we still do not understand. Many mothers decide that glowing anectodal reports, and the fact that almost every species of placental mammal engages in placentophagia are compelling reasons to consider placenta remedy preparation. Explore the experiences of other women, the research that does exist, and your intuition about placenta remedies to decide if they are right for you. Feel free to contact me to ask questions!
When do I contact you if I want you to prepare my placenta remedies? If you are ready to book placenta services, simply fill out the Placenta Services Agreement. I will contact you with confirmation of your services fee and any questions I have. You should also view the Release and Care Guide. If you have questions or concerns that you would like to adress before deciding if you would like me to prepare your placenta remedies, don’t hesitate to contact me! We can meet in person, or communicate through email or phone. If you have chosen to have me prepare your remedies, you should book services as soon as possible. Booking services with me ensures that I will be able to prepare your remedies in a timely fashion. Getting all of these details out of the way before birth is ideal, so that I can simply prepare and deliver your remedies as soon as possible after birth. This leaves you free to focus on your new baby, instead of sorting out these details. That being said, if you decide after the birth of your baby that you would like me to prepare your placenta remedies, don’t hesitate to contact me! In this case, please contact me by phone to ensure that I can begin preparation of your remedies as soon as possible.
Will the hospital release my placenta to me? What do I need? How do I store it?Most hospitals will release the placenta to the new parents, unless there is concern about the placenta or mother/baby that warrants investigation of the placenta by the pathology lab. It is very important to state your preference in your birth plan if you write one, and have your doula or partner remind your medical care team of your wishes at the time of birth. The placenta should be double-bagged or placed in a container, clearly labeled, then put on ice or refrigerated as soon as possible after the birth (within 5 hours). Here is a document explaining the release and care of the placenta, as well as instructions for transport and a handy client checklist.
Can you make remedies out of my placenta that has been frozen since my child's birth X number of months ago?Provided that the placenta was refrigerated within 5 hours of birth and frozen within 5 days of birth, and has been stored well and protected from freezer-burn, placenta remedies can still be made from a placenta that is up to 6-9 months old, or possibly even longer. Food storage guidelines are usually followed, (6 months for frozen meat), but some parents are more lenient with these guidelines. Would you consume meat that had been frozen for 6 months? 1 year? Longer? Your answer is a matter of food safety and personal acceptance of the risk of foodborne illness. Fresh is best for placenta remedies, as with food. B vitamins are destroyed during freezing, but other factors are thought to remain intact. Remedies can still be made from frozen placentas months after birth and most mothers who have chosen to use these remedies report positive experiences.
How many pills will my placenta make?Placentas vary greatly in size and composition, and can generate anywhere from 80-300 capsules each. The average placenta prepared according to the TCM approach yields about 125 capsules, while the average placenta prepared according to the Raw approach yields about 175.
Do you have gift certificates for placenta services?I have gift certificates available for all of my services- doula services, belly casting, and placenta services. I can prepare a non-specific gift certificate that can be used for any of my services, or I can prepare one specifically for placental remedies and keepsakes. Contact me for more information.
I want to have placenta remedies prepared, but I do not live near Truro. What can I do?I provide placenta services to families across Nova Scotia. If you can get your placenta to me in Truro, I will prepare your remedies and have them couriered back to you at no additional cost. Most of my out-of town clients either have a friend or family member deliver the placent to me in Truro, or courier it via Maritime Bus (formerly) Acadian Lines Bus Courier Service, which is very reliable and affordable (~$10). If you live too far away for courier services to safely transport your placenta, you can browse my Placenta Services Provider Directory, and you can also check out this google map of providers. If you are interested in preparing your own remedies or having a loved one prepare them for you, I am happy to guide you to resources to help you, just contact me!
