Evidence Based Birth® EBB 7: Evidence on placenta encapsulation
Jan 12, 2018
The podcast dives into the intriguing claims surrounding placenta encapsulation, particularly its supposed benefits for postpartum depression and milk supply. It critiques outdated studies while highlighting new randomized trials that suggest encapsulated placenta offers no significant advantages over a beef placebo. The discussion also reveals that while encapsulated pills contain more iron, they don't improve women's iron levels or overall health. This sparks a call for more thorough research on the effects of this popular practice.
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Claims Outpace Evidence
- Placenta encapsulation claims (improved milk, mood, iron) are widespread but poorly supported by evidence.
- Many websites repeat benefits without providing quality scientific backing.
Nutrient Content Is Modest
- Chemical analyses found placenta capsules contain modest iron — about 25% of a breastfeeding woman's daily need.
- Other micronutrients were too low to have meaningful effects, and no toxic element levels were detected.
Detectable Hormones, Uncertain Effects
- Hormone testing detected 15 of 17 hormones in encapsulated placenta samples at generally low concentrations.
- Researchers noted progesterone and estradiol levels could theoretically reach physiologic effect ranges but didn't test effects.