Although it sounds surprising, eating the placenta after giving birth is done by some women. This activity is called placentophagy. Eating the placenta is believed to benefit the condition after giving birth. But is this really true?
Consuming the placenta can be done in several ways, including by drying, pounding it into powder, then putting it in capsules, or even eating it raw while in the delivery room.
Rumors Behind the Benefits of Eating Placenta
The placenta is an important organ for pregnancy, because it functions to circulate blood and substances needed by the fetus to survive and develop during the womb. These substances include nutrients, oxygen, and hormones.
However, those who follow the trend of eating placenta or placentophagy strongly believe that taking the placenta after giving birth is beneficial for:
- Increase stamina
- Increasing milk production
- Reducing stress hormones
- Prevents postpartum depression
- Improve iron levels in the blood.
- Helps the uterus to return to normal
- Makes mother feel closer to her baby
Even so, the benefits of placental consumption cannot be proven medically and still need further research. So, if you feel the various benefits above after consuming the placenta, it could be just a suggestion effect because you believe it.
Consider the Side Effects of Consumption of the Placenta
Although eating the placenta after giving birth you can do, but you need to reconsider some of the side effects that might occur. Some women experience dizziness and anxiety after consuming the placenta
In addition, some other effects that you need to be aware of are:
- Disturbed by the smell and bad taste of the placenta
- Increased uterine contractions
- Increased vaginal bleeding
- Indigestion
- Feeling hot (hot flashes)
- Infection
Not only that, a study also revealed that taking the placenta can also contribute to the emergence of Streptococcus bacterial infection in infants. This can occur due to the baby contracting an infection from the mother while breastfeeding.
If you are indeed interested in eating the placenta after giving birth, you should seek reliable information first about the benefits and risks. You are also advised to consult a doctor, so that no dangerous risks occur.
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