Placenta Services - Frequently Asked Questions

How many capsules will I receive?




The total number of capsules depends on the size and volume of the placenta as well as the encapsulation method chosen.
The Raw Method typically yields more capsules than the steamed method.


From experience, the average placenta produces approximately 140–200 capsules.




Is it OK to encapsulate if I had…?



Delayed or immediate cord clamping?




Yes. Placenta encapsulation is possible regardless of when the cord is clamped.




An epidural, induction, or cesarean birth?




Yes. These are not contraindications. The placenta filters medications quickly. We routinely encapsulate placentas from epidural, spinal, induction, and cesarean births.




A water birth?




Yes. It is common for care providers to ask the birthing person to exit the tub to birth the placenta. Even if the placenta is birthed in water, it is generally safe to encapsulate.
If the water quality is compromised, the Raw Method may not be suitable, and the gently steamed method is recommended to eliminate any potential bacteria.




A lotus birth?




No. A lotus birth requires the placenta to remain attached until the cord naturally detaches (typically 5–15 days). At that point, the placenta is no longer suitable for consumption.




Meconium in the bag of waters?




Yes. Meconium is only dangerous if inhaled by the infant and is otherwise sterile. The placenta is thoroughly rinsed before processing. A vinegar bath may be applied, and food-safe temperatures during steaming and/or dehydration eliminate remaining bacteria.




Group B Strep (GBS)?




Yes. GBS is not a contraindication. High heat from steaming and/or dehydration eliminates bacteria during processing.




Cord blood banking?




Yes, you can do both. You must notify your cord blood banking company that you plan to keep the placenta for encapsulation so it is handled as a food product during collection.




Pre-eclampsia?




Yes. Pre-eclampsia is not a contraindication. After birth, placentas are routinely examined. If your provider detects infection or abnormalities and sends the placenta to pathology, encapsulation will not be possible.




Placenta previa?




Yes. This does not affect the ability to encapsulate.




Gestational diabetes?




Yes. Whether diet-controlled or insulin-controlled, gestational diabetes does not affect eligibility.




Having my placenta frozen?




Yes, if stored properly.
If the placenta was refrigerated immediately after birth (up to 4 days) and frozen within that time, it can be safely encapsulated for up to 6 months after birth.




How long do placenta capsules last?


Placenta capsules typically have a 1–2 year shelf life when stored properly.


After the first two weeks of use, we recommend transferring remaining capsules into a sealed ziplock bag and storing them in the back of the freezer to extend freshness and potency.




When is it NOT possible to encapsulate the placenta?


Encapsulation is not possible if:

  • The placenta was chemically contaminated or sent to pathology
  • It sat at room temperature for more than 4–5 hours without preservation
  • It was refrigerated longer than 4–5 days without freezing
  • There was uterine infection or chorioamnionitis
  • There was heavy drug use during pregnancy
  • There was heavy smoking during pregnancy
  • There is placental cancer (choriocarcinoma)





If my placenta was sent to pathology?




No. Once the placenta is sent to pathology, it cannot be encapsulated.




Is anything added to the capsules?


No. Capsules contain 100% your placenta only.
There are no binders, fillers, herbs, or preservatives added.




What sanitation precautions are taken?


Safety and hygiene are paramount. We operate under strict food-safety and sanitation standards, including:

  • Dedicated placenta-only equipment
  • Stainless steel, glass, food-grade plastics, and disposable materials
  • Hot-water washing with antibacterial soap
  • Bleach sanitization for submersible tools
  • Antiviral and antibacterial cleaning for non-submersible equipment



We follow New York State Food Handling Guidelines and are certified in Bloodborne Pathogen Safety for Doulas and Placenta Encapsulators through Biologix Solutions.




How do I take the capsules?


You will receive clear dosage and usage instructions with your completed order.




What is a placenta tincture?


A placenta tincture is a long-lasting extract preserved in high-grade alcohol. A small portion of the raw placenta is placed in alcohol for a minimum of 6 weeks, creating a shelf-stable tincture often used in small doses over time. It may be shared through the maternal lineage (grandmother, mother, daughter).

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