Placenta Encapsulation: A Natural Path to Postpartum Healing

A collection of placenta encapsulation pills, commonly used for postpartum health support.

The postpartum period is a transformative time for every mom, filled with joy, but also challenges. While the focus is often on the baby, it’s essential to prioritize your own healing too. One natural way to support your recovery is placenta encapsulation, a holistic practice that can help replenish nutrients, balance hormones, and promote overall well-being.

At EAST & WEST Functional Family Medicine & Acupuncture, we specialize in offering a safe, personalized approach to placenta encapsulation. In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of this ancient tradition and how it can enhance your postpartum journey.

What is Placenta Encapsulation?

Placenta encapsulation is the process of drying, grinding, and placing your placenta into capsules for easy consumption. This holistic approach, rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), helps harness the nourishing benefits of the placenta without the need for a complicated or unpleasant preparation process.

At EAST & WEST, we ensure the process is simple, quick, and customized to your needs.

Benefits of Placenta Encapsulation

Placenta encapsulation can offer a wide range of benefits, including:

• Hormonal Balance: The placenta contains hormones that support your mental well-being and help reduce stress, easing the transition into motherhood.

• Reduced Postpartum Bleeding: Rich in oxytocin, a hormone that helps the uterus contract, placenta encapsulation may help reduce postpartum bleeding.

• Increased Milk Supply: Many moms report a boost in milk production due to the lactation-supporting hormones found in the placenta.

• Natural Iron Replenishment: Placenta is rich in bioavailable iron, helping to prevent postpartum fatigue and anemia.

• Reduced Fatigue & Increased Energy: The combination of essential nutrients and hormones in the placenta can support sustained energy levels and reduce postpartum exhaustion.

Why Choose EAST & WEST for Placenta Encapsulation?

Not all placenta encapsulation services are created equal. At EAST & WEST, we go above and beyond to ensure your experience is safe, efficient, and fully supportive:

• Customizable Options: Choose between gelatin or vegetarian capsules, with optional warming herbs for enhanced postpartum support.

• Fast Turnaround: We deliver your placenta capsules within 24–48 hours after pick-up, so you can start feeling the benefits right away.

• Strict Safety & Hygiene: We follow best practices for sanitation, using stainless steel equipment to avoid plastic exposure and ensure the purity of your capsules.

• Doctor Guidance: As a doctor specializing in Chinese medicine, functional health, and postpartum recovery, I provide expert guidance on how to take your placenta capsules and adjust the dosage based on your needs.

• Keepsake Option: Want to preserve the bond between you and your baby? We offer an optional cord keepsake, where we shape your baby’s umbilical cord into a heart or spiral.

  
  

The Encapsulation Process: What to Expect

We’ve simplified the process to make it as stress-free as possible, allowing you to focus on what matters most – bonding with your baby. Here’s an easy breakdown of the steps:

1. Preparation: Include placenta encapsulation in your birth plan. We’ll provide a list of supplies you need, including a cooler and Ziploc bags for storage.

2. Storage & Pickup: After your baby is born, your birth partner will store your placenta in the cooler and text us for pickup (we offer pick-up services from birth centers and hospitals).

3. Encapsulation: Within 24-48 hours, we’ll encapsulate your placenta and deliver your capsules to you, along with instructions on how to use them.

4. Postpartum Support: I’ll provide ongoing support and personalized guidance throughout your postpartum recovery.

   
   

When is Placenta Encapsulation Not Safe?

While placenta encapsulation is safe for most mothers, there are a few situations where it is not recommended. We prioritize your safety, so it’s important to know when encapsulation may not be an option:

• Chorioamnionitis (Infection During Labor): If you experienced an infection during labor, placenta encapsulation is not recommended due to potential bacterial contamination.

• Allergic Reaction to Medications: If you have an allergic reaction to any medications given during labor (e.g., antibiotics), it may be unsafe to encapsulate your placenta.

• Severe Placental Abnormalities: In cases of severe placental abnormalities, such as placenta accreta or other complications, we will work with your healthcare provider to ensure your safety before proceeding.

If you're unsure whether placenta encapsulation is safe for you, we encourage you to reach out for a consultation. We can review your specific circumstances and help you make an informed decision.

FAQs About Placenta Encapsulation

• Is it safe to encapsulate my placenta if I have an unplanned cesarean or GBS+? Yes, placenta encapsulation is safe in these situations. We follow strict protocols to ensure the safety and quality of the process.

• What if there’s meconium present in the placenta? It’s still safe to encapsulate your placenta with meconium present.

• How do I book my placenta encapsulation? It’s easy! Simply visit our booking page and select the placenta encapsulation service.

How to Get Started with Placenta Encapsulation at EAST & WEST

Placenta encapsulation can be an invaluable tool to support your postpartum recovery, providing hormonal balance, energy, and much-needed nutrients. At EAST & WEST, we prioritize your well-being with safe, professional, and personalized care. Let us help you heal and thrive as you navigate the beautiful journey of motherhood.

If you’re ready to experience the benefits of placenta encapsulation, contact us today. We offer a free 15-minute consultation where I’ll answer all your questions and help guide you through the process. Book your consultation now!