Placenta Encapsulation: What the Research Really Says
For centuries, cultures around the world have valued the placenta for its symbolic and medicinal significance. In recent years, placenta encapsulation — the process of steaming, dehydrating, and grinding the placenta into capsules for postpartum consumption — has gained popularity among new parents in the United States.
Advocates often share anecdotal benefits, such as improved mood, increased energy, and faster recovery. But what does the research actually say? Let’s take a closer look.
Nutrients and Iron Content
One of the most frequently cited potential benefits of placenta encapsulation is its nutrient profile, especially iron.
A randomized, double-blind pilot study by Gryder et al. (2017) compared iron levels in new mothers who consumed encapsulated placenta versus a beef placebo. The findings showed:
"Placenta capsules contain over seven times more iron than beef capsules — about 24% of a lactating parent’s daily recommended intake."
Placenta capsules averaged 0.664 mg/g of iron per typical daily dose.
Beef placebo capsules contained 0.093 mg/g.
Blood iron markers did not differ significantly between the groups within the short 3-week postpartum study period.
What this means: Placenta capsules are a rich source of bioavailable iron, but research hasn’t proven they outperform other iron sources in restoring postpartum iron levels.
Hormones in Placenta Capsules
Beyond nutrients, placenta contains hormones that could influence postpartum recovery.
A study by Young et al. (2018) analyzed 28 samples of encapsulated placenta and found 15 detectable hormones, including:
"Estradiol, progesterone, and allopregnanolone were present in levels high enough to potentially have physiological effects."
Follow-up testing confirmed that these hormones were measurable in the saliva of participants who consumed placenta capsules, suggesting bioavailability. However, the changes were modest, and more research is needed to understand their impact.
Mood, Fatigue, and Bonding
Postpartum recovery is about more than physical healing — emotional well-being and energy matter, too.
In a pilot trial, Young et al. (2018) measured outcomes using validated surveys:
"Mothers taking placenta capsules reported lower postpartum depression scores and improved fatigue during peak supplementation."
Other measures, such as anxiety, bonding, and sleep quality, showed no significant differences.
Safety Considerations
Concerns about heavy metals like mercury and lead are common, but research by Young et al. (2016) found:
"Heavy metal levels in placenta capsules are well below EPA and FDA safety limits."
Proper preparation by a trained placenta arts specialist ensures safety through strict sanitation and handling protocols.
The Bottom Line
Current evidence suggests that placenta encapsulation:
Provides bioavailable nutrients, including iron.
Contains multiple hormones, some of which may have physiological effects.
May modestly improve mood and reduce fatigue in the early postpartum period.
Appears to have low heavy metal content, well within safety guidelines.
However, research is still limited, and placenta encapsulation should be one supportive tool in a holistic postpartum care plan — not a replacement for professional medical or mental health care.
References:
Gryder, L. K., et al. (2017). Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health, 62(1), 68–79. https://doi.org/10.1111/jmwh.12549
Young, S. M., et al. (2018). Placenta, 67, 1–5. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.placenta.2018.05.003
Young, S. M., et al. (2018). Women and Birth, 31(2), e98–e103. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wombi.2017.06.004
Young, S. M., et al. (2016). Nutrition Research, 36(8), 872–878. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.nutres.2016.06.008
