Placenta FAQ
why should I hire stepping stones birth to process my placenta?
I have taken a thorough placenta encapsulation course from a well-respected and experienced Placenta Specialist. I am also certified in OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens for Doulas & Professionals in Placenta Encapsulation in accordance with the OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Standard 29 CFR 1910.1030. Additionally, I have my Food Handler Safety certification. I always use the utmost care when handling your placenta.
what are some benefits to placenta encapsulation?
An increase in energy, better hormone balance, increase in milk supply, decrease in postpartum bleeding, a good source of iron, combating postpartum depression, and faster healing time.
what is the encapsulation process?
The entire process takes about 24 hours to complete.
I will rinse your placenta in a cool bath in order to release any impurities and will check it for overall health. At this time I will prepare the tincture if you would like one and make the placenta print. Then I will begin the encapsulation process which is either TCM or Raw.
Traditional Chinese Method (TCM)
The placenta is steamed in a fragrant bath of ginger, jalapeno, and lemon for about an hour. This creates a wonderful broth that may be consumed by the mother. She may wish to drink it with honey or poured over some rice. I will then sliver the placenta and begin dehydrating it. It will dehydrate overnight and I will return the next day to finish the process.
Raw Method
The process is very similar to the TCM, but I will not steam the placenta prior to dehydrating it. The benefit to the Raw Method is the greater hormonal release, a greater boost of energy, and faster postpartum healing.
Upon my return the next day I will begin the encapsulation process. I use vegetable gel capsules. Generally, a placenta will make between 100 and 175 capsules.
It will take me about 2 hours each day to complete the entire process. I will need to return a third time to finish the tincture.
I will rinse your placenta in a cool bath in order to release any impurities and will check it for overall health. At this time I will prepare the tincture if you would like one and make the placenta print. Then I will begin the encapsulation process which is either TCM or Raw.
Traditional Chinese Method (TCM)
The placenta is steamed in a fragrant bath of ginger, jalapeno, and lemon for about an hour. This creates a wonderful broth that may be consumed by the mother. She may wish to drink it with honey or poured over some rice. I will then sliver the placenta and begin dehydrating it. It will dehydrate overnight and I will return the next day to finish the process.
Raw Method
The process is very similar to the TCM, but I will not steam the placenta prior to dehydrating it. The benefit to the Raw Method is the greater hormonal release, a greater boost of energy, and faster postpartum healing.
Upon my return the next day I will begin the encapsulation process. I use vegetable gel capsules. Generally, a placenta will make between 100 and 175 capsules.
It will take me about 2 hours each day to complete the entire process. I will need to return a third time to finish the tincture.
what is a placenta tincture or essence and the benefits?
Placenta tinctures and essences are made with a piece of placenta and 80-100 proof alcohol. The tincture sets outside for 24 hours and then is stored in a dark place like a cupboard for about 6 weeks, at which point I return to finish the process. The essence sets outside for 24 hours (like the tincture) and I complete the process when I return to finish the encapsulation. Tinctures are stronger as they pull out more of the placenta's essence. Tinctures and essences are great for a quick pick-me-up, or in times of stress or change. It is also nice to save until menopause when you may need quick hormone pick-me-ups. You will receive three 4 ounce bottles and a 2 ounce bottle with a dropper for when you are out and about.
my placenta has been in my freezer for months, is it too late to have it encapsulated?
I will look over your placenta to determine it's health, just like any other placenta that I process. As long as it looks healthy, there is no reason to not encapsulate it.
How will I get my placenta to you?
Once you birth your baby you will place the placenta in the fridge. Most hospitals will give you a container to place it in, but be sure to bring 2 Ziploc freezer bags as a precaution. If you are birthing at home, place it in either a metal bowl or in 2 Ziploc freezer bags and refrigerate as soon as possible. I will encapsulate in your home.
why do you only encapsulate in your clients' homes?
I firmly believe in transparency in my placenta business. Since I prepare and complete everything in your home, you can observe my processing, clean up methods and overall care of your placenta.
Do I have to watch you process the placenta?
Some parents are very interested and will watch over my shoulder while snapping pictures. Other parents would rather sit in another room and enjoy their new baby. Either way is fine.
is there a smell?
The placenta smells earthy. If it smells foul, it has gone bad and I won't use it. The Chinese Method smells of lemon and ginger simmering with a meat undertone. The placenta powder does have a slight smell, but you would have to be near it to smell it.
what does the placenta taste like?
The raw placenta itself is sweet. The dehydrated placenta tastes similar to seaweed without the salt (slightly sweet, deep and earthy).
are there any side effects?
The side effects I have heard about the most are an oversupply of milk and/or insomnia. If either of those problems affect you, adjust the amount of capsules you are taking, or the time of day you are taking the capsules to find the right dosage for you.
how far are you willing to travel?
I will travel 30 miles from 59601. Please contact me if you are outside this radius. I sometimes will make exceptions or can refer you to a local encapsulation specialist.
how soon after the birth can you begin the process?
I should be able to begin the process as soon as mom or dad calls me. I need one person in the home while I work, therefore sometimes parents prefer I process once they return from the hospital. In the hospital they will typically give the parents a container to keep the placenta in and will hold it in their refrigerator. if it is not kept in the refrigerator, it will need to be kept on ice. As some policies change, it is always advisable to pack 2 Ziploc gallon bags and a small cooler to keep the placenta in, just in case.
Disclaimer: The information on this page has not been evaluated by the FDA. The services I offer are not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. By choosing to utilize the services on this page you take full responsibility for researching and using the remedies.