Congratulations on your pregnancy or the arrival of your little one! As you begin this exciting new chapter, you might be curious about placenta encapsulation and how it might support your breastfeeding journey. This guide will explain how the process works, how it might influence your breastfeeding experience, and share important information about potential risks.

What is Placenta Encapsulation?

Placenta encapsulation is the process of drying your placenta, grinding it into a fine powder, and placing it into capsules for consumption. Some mothers choose to have their placenta encapsulated for its purported benefits, particularly during the early postpartum period, when establishing breastfeeding and recovering from childbirth can be challenging. Research supporting the safety and efficacy is limited.¹ 

How Might Placenta Encapsulation Help with Breastfeeding?

• Increased Milk Supply

One important reason mothers are interested in placenta encapsulation is its reported benefits for milk supply. Proponents claim that taking placenta capsules can help boost milk production during the early days of breastfeeding, when supply is still growing.

• Balanced Hormones

After childbirth, your hormone levels undergo significant changes. Supporters of placenta encapsulation believe it may help restore hormonal balance, which could support both milk production and overall postpartum well-being.

• Increased Energy

Many new mothers experience exhaustion after childbirth. Placenta encapsulation is believed to provide an energy boost due to the nutrients found in the placenta, such as iron and B vitamins.

• Reduced Risk of Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression and anxiety are common concerns for many new mothers. Some believe placenta encapsulation may help reduce the risk of these postpartum mood disorders by supporting hormonal balance during the postpartum period.

• Improved Recovery After Birth

After childbirth, your body needs time to recover. The placenta contains nutrients like iron, which may help replenish your body’s stores and speed up recovery. 

What Are the Risks of Placenta Encapsulation?

While placenta encapsulation may offer potential benefits, it’s important to consider the possible risks. Not every new mother may experience positive outcomes, and there are some health concerns that should be taken into account.^2,3,4,5,6

• Risk of Infection

One of the biggest concerns with placenta encapsulation is the potential for infection. If the placenta is not properly handled, prepared, or stored, harmful bacteria could contaminate the capsules. Improper processing can lead to infections that may harm both you and your baby.⁷

• Lack of Scientific Evidence

While many mothers swear by the benefits of placenta encapsulation, scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited. Research on the subject is still ongoing, and many studies have not shown clear benefits for all the claimed advantages. For example, some studies have found no significant effect on mood, milk supply, or postpartum recovery.¹

• Possible Negative Side Effects

Some women experience negative side effects after consuming placenta, such as digestive upset or headaches. These side effects may be due to the hormones or other compounds in the placenta. Because the placenta contains high levels of hormones, consuming it may cause hormone imbalances in some individuals, leading to issues like increased anxiety, irritability, or even abnormal bleeding (including blood clots).

• Decreased Milk Supply

Milk supply typically increases a few days after birth, as progesterone levels drop following the expulsion of the placenta. However, some experts are concerned that consuming the placenta, which contains hormones like progesterone and estrogen, may interfere with this natural hormonal shift and potentially reduce milk production. The presence of these hormones in the placenta could disrupt the hormonal balance needed for optimal milk supply, especially in the early postpartum period.

• Risk of Heavy Metal Contamination

According to a study published in PubMed, the placenta may contain trace amounts of heavy metals, such as lead or mercury, depending on environmental exposures. When consumed, these toxins could potentially be passed to the mother or the breastfeeding baby, leading to health concerns.⁸

• Lack of Regulation

In many areas, placenta encapsulation is not regulated by health authorities. This lack of regulation means that the process may not always be as safe as it should be. 

Is Placenta Encapsulation Right for You?

What If I Have Questions?

If you are interested in learning more, these Aeroflow classes expand on some of the topics discussed above:

• Ultimate Breastfeeding Prep
• Lactation Q & A
• Moms Circle

Want More Info?

For a directory of Aeroflow’s other Care Guides offering information on pregnancy, baby care, and more, browse our comprehensive list of titles:

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