Frequently Asked Questions on Placenta Encapsulation
When is the placenta prepared?
Ideally, the placenta preparation takes place as soon as possible after delivery, within the first 48 hours, allowing you and baby to benefit from the most potency the placenta has to offer. The first two weeks are the most important and effective time to consume the placenta.
How should the placenta be handled or treated from the time of birth until the time of processing and preparation?
If you are having a hospital birth, ask your nurse to double bag the placenta in a biohazard bag or in a hospital provided plastic container. Bring a cooler to the hospital to keep the placenta cold with ice following the birth. Edna will coordinate all logistics and make sure that you have all the resources you need for the successful transportation of your placenta.
Where is the placenta prepared?
The placenta is prepared in Edna’s home. Edna adheres to the strictest standards of safety as set forth by OSHA and the EPA and conforms to local health department guidelines for food preparation and safety protocols. The preparation process is always done in a sterile environment, using sterile equipment, with love and patience, giving you the greatest quality of care.
What supplies are used? How they are stored and sanitized?
The supplies used during the encapsulation process are all stainless steel and food-grade plastic. All equipment is washed with hot soapy water and sterilized with a bleach solution after each use. The preparation area is fully cleaned and sanitized with bleach solution prior to and after processing of the placenta.
What are the different ways to encapsulate placenta?
Edna offers two methods of preparation. The Raw Dehydration Method thinly slices the raw placenta prior to dehydration. Moms who take raw pills have experienced high bursts of energy, with almost immediate effects. The Traditional Chinese Method (TCM) preparation lightly steams the placenta with ginger, lemon, and jalapeno pepper before dehydration. Moms who take TCM pills report a tonifying effect, as well as a building of energy.
What if I have an epidural or a C-section?
It is still absolutely possible and safe to consume your placenta, even if an epidural was administered or a C-section was performed. Mothers who have had epidurals or C-sections benefit from the placenta pills just as well as natural birth mothers. Please speak with your health care provider so they know that you plan to take your placenta home with you.
Is there any time I should NOT take the pills?
Placenta pills should not be taken if the body is fighting off a common cold, flu, or infection (including COVID-19). If you should get a breast infection (mastitis), the pills should not be taken until the infection is cleared. If symptoms such as chills, fever, sneezing, aches, flushed cheeks, or hot palms and feet, should occur, stop taking the capsules until the body has fought this off.
Do you provide directions for use?
Yes, your package includes professionally labeled bottles and an information card for suggested use. We will discuss this information together to help assure your understanding and provide an opportunity to ask questions. Consultations are available to mothers prior to placenta encapsulation, and continued phone/text support is available to all clients after services are complete.
