For years, the trend of women consuming their placentas post-birth—known as placentophagia (try saying that without skirmishing your lunch)—has gained traction. Advocates of this practice assert that it can help stave off postpartum depression, boost milk supply, and serve as a nutritional source for new moms. However, a recent study from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, has thrown a wrench in these claims, revealing that eating placenta doesn’t actually provide the iron benefits many believe it does.
So, put down that placenta smoothie, and maybe opt for a nice bowl of spinach instead, huh?
Iron deficiencies can plague women during and after pregnancy, and most healthcare professionals recommend iron supplements to combat this issue. Placentophagia enthusiasts contend that the placenta is loaded with iron, potentially eliminating the need for supplements. But this new study, which had some participants taking encapsulated placentas while others received beef capsule placebos, uncovered “significant differences” in iron levels between the two groups over a three-week span after childbirth. The conclusion? Women relying solely on their placentas may miss out on essential iron intake, which is crucial for recovery.
That’s no small matter. A postpartum iron deficiency can lead to anemia, heightening the risk of postpartum depression and triggering symptoms like breathlessness, fatigue, palpitations, and maternal infections, as highlighted by the World Health Organization. Iron deficiencies demand serious attention—don’t put all your postpartum health eggs in the placenta basket!
Of course, many women who’ve eaten their placentas swear by its benefits, claiming it aided their recovery after childbirth. And that’s fine—everyone’s journey is unique. But if you’re still undecided, it might be wise to weigh some scientific evidence against the “Pros” of placentophagia. Mark Thompson, a behavioral neuroscientist at the University of Buffalo, describes this trend as a New Age fad, noting that every couple of decades, people insist, “We should do this because it’s natural and animals do it,” despite it lacking scientific backing.
Placentophagia first popped up in the U.S. in the 1970s, thanks to a few adventurous hippies. Today, it has gained enough popularity for women to include it in their birth plans. You can even find placenta cookbooks on sites like Amazon, boasting “25 easy and delicious recipes,” including “Placenta Pâté,” which frankly sounds more like a nightmare than a delicacy. If it were merely a matter of personal preference, we’d say go for it—each to their own placenta! However, it’s essential to acknowledge potential health risks associated with relying on your placenta for postpartum recovery and consult with your doctor or midwife about any plans you may have.
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In summary, while the idea of eating your placenta may seem appealing to some, scientific research suggests it’s not the iron powerhouse many believe it to be. Weigh the pros and cons, and definitely consult with a healthcare professional before making any dietary decisions post-birth.