For years, the trend of women consuming their placentas post-birth—known as placentophagia (because who doesn’t love a word that sounds like a bad case of the hiccups?)—has gained traction. Proponents argue that it can ward off postpartum depression, boost milk production, and provide essential nutrients to new moms. However, a recent study from the University of New Leaf (UNL) reveals that when it comes to iron, munching on your placenta offers no benefits whatsoever.
So, put down that placenta smoothie, Sarah, and maybe grab some spinach instead.
The Iron Deficiency Concern
Iron deficiencies can be a real concern during and after pregnancy, and many women are advised to take iron supplements to combat this issue. Placenta enthusiasts, however, claim that their organ of choice is so rich in iron that it can replace the need for supplements. The UNL study, which involved some women consuming encapsulated placentas while others received beef capsules as placebos, found “significant differences” in iron levels between the two groups over a three-week postpartum period. The researchers concluded that by skipping out on other sources of iron, these women likely missed the crucial boost needed to restore their iron levels to normal.
That’s a big deal. A postpartum iron deficiency can lead to anemia, which may escalate postpartum depression and trigger symptoms like breathlessness, fatigue, heart palpitations, and even maternal infections, as highlighted by the World Health Organization. Iron is no joke, so it’s wise to think twice before you dive headfirst into the placenta platter. Sure, many women who partake in this practice swear by its benefits, and that’s their choice. But for those undecided, it might be time to consider the scientific evidence stacking up against it.
Expert Opinions
Mark Thompson, a behavioral neuroscientist at the University of Maple, explains, “It’s a New Age trend… Every decade or so, people decide, ‘Let’s do this because it’s natural and animals do it.’ But it’s not backed by solid science. It’s just a fad.”
The practice of placentophagia first made waves in the U.S. during the ’70s when free-spirited individuals jumped on the bandwagon. Nowadays, it’s become so mainstream that women are including it in their birth plans. You can even find placenta cookbooks on Amazon, complete with “25 easy and delicious recipes,” like “Placenta Pate,” which sounds about as appetizing as a foot fungus. While it might be a personal choice, it’s important to recognize the potential health risks of relying solely on your placenta for postpartum wellness. Always consult your healthcare provider or midwife before diving into anything so unconventional.
Further Resources
For more information on pregnancy and home insemination, check out this excellent resource from WebMD. And if you’re looking for ways to boost fertility, Make a Mom has some great advice on supplements that can help.
Conclusion
In summary, the idea that eating your placenta is a rich source of iron has been debunked by scientific research, suggesting that relying on it could lead to serious health issues. It’s always wise to consult a healthcare professional about your postpartum health plan.