As you welcome the arrival of your baby, you also enter the FOURTH TRIMESTER. This is a term many people have never heard of, but this precious time is often very baby focused when the new mother actually needs just as much care.
My name is Chantal and as a Nurse, Midwife and Mother I understand how vital it is to care for yourself during AND after your pregnancy journey. Most people focus on the woman during pregnancy, but once the much anticipated baby arrives, the focus can quickly shift away from the new mother’s needs. Putting pregnancy in perspective, it has taken almost a year to grow this small, remarkable and often very noisy human. That’s right your body is amazing.....it grew a human! The recovery though can take just as long/ longer, as it’s an incredibly individual process and no two one of us are the same. This is where the FOURTH TRIMESTER SERVICES can support you.
Enter the subject you’ve come here to learn about PLACENTA ENCAPSULATION! Now this is not everyone’s cup of tea, but you’re obviously intrigued or you wouldn’t be here. The placenta is an amazing organ with the ability to nurture and grow your baby. It is so often overlooked in how amazing it actually is and what it can offer beyond pregnancy.
Easier, Faster Recovery
Regulates Hormones
Feel more balanced
Increased Milk Supply
Decreased Postpartum Bleeding
Improved Mood
Increased Energy
Better Sleep
Decreased Baby Blues, Depression & Anxiety
Yep you read that right it’s a win, win, WIN! The placenta has wonderful healing properties, however the idea can put people off but that’s why I’m here to keep it simple.
There are 2 different encapsulation methods, each offers different advantages.
TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE (TCM) METHOD: Since the 1500’s placenta has been used in Chinese medicine. In Chinese medicine the process of labour and birth is believed to leave open an empty void of space within the body, which is considered to be very yin, or cold. The Chinese believe that after birth, the mother needs to be kept warm and should only consume warm foods and warm drinks. Healing is promoted during the postpartum period by adding yang, which is warmth. This effect is produced in placenta encapsulation by the use of steam and the option of adding warming herbs, creating warming and nourishing capsules. Mothers who have taken TCM capsules have reported a more balanced, healing and warming feeling and noticed a gradual increase in energy.
There are many variations in TCM preparation for the placenta, but the primary characteristic that separates it from other methods is that the placenta is steamed. I offer the option to add Lemon, Chilli and Ginger during the steaming process (not added to final product), which is thought to enhance the warming energy.
The additional heating of the placenta is in alignment with TCM principles of increasing warming, yang energy to balance cold, yin energy that is more prevalent postpartum.
The warming process is thought to promote a calming effect and suited to women with a calm demeaner (calm makes calm).
Some believe that cooking makes the iron more bioavailable.
SIMPLE ENCAPSULATION METHOD: Skips the steaming processes, which reduces shrinkage therefore yielding more tablets. The placenta is otherwise prepared the same (washed, cleaned and prepared for dehydration) before being ground to a powder ready for encapsulation. This method, due to skipping the steaming process, is often referred to as “RAW”; however this is not quite correct as it is still heated during the dehydration process.
By not steaming the placenta, higher energy levels are experienced postpartum.
The ‘Raw Energy’ can give women an energy boost, which can feel much needed after a long night of broken sleep.
Since the placenta is not steamed, the pill yield is quite a bit higher. You will get more pills out of the same size placenta.
PLACENTA TINCTURE: Is a very potent remedy with versatile healing properties, and is easy to use. Making a Placenta Tincture increases the longevity of your placenta so you feel the benefits for longer. A small amount of placenta is placed in an alcohol solution and fermented for 6 weeks then strained and mildly dilute, then it is ready to use. Due to the alcohol preserving the nutrient and hormone properties, the tincture can last a lifetime and 1 drop is equivalent to 1 capsule.
Help prevent postpartum depression
Ease anxiety and emotional distress
Be great for returning menstrual cycles
Regulate menstrual cycles
Help naturally replace hormones during menopause (Yep it can easily be kept this long)
Balance your hormones during monthly premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Help prevent hot flashes, palpitations and mood swings
Pricing
All costs include: consultation, collection, assessment, processing, medical grade storage bottles, and delivery.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Method Capsules $270
TCM with warming herbs $275
Simple Method Capsules $260
Both TCM & Simple Method (half/ half) $280
Tincture (per 200ml bottle) $50
FAQ
Q.Everyone’s number 1 question...…...is there any taste?
A. Thank goodness No. I can assure you from personal experience there was no taste, after-taste, smell or anything unpleasant at all. It’s just the same as taking a multi vitamin but with more benefits and nothing artificial.
Q. Are the capsules suitable for vegetarians?
A. Yes. I only use high quality vegetable derived capsules. They are suitable for vegetarians, vegans and people with dairy and egg allergies. I can use Gelatine capsules if requested. Gelatine can support wonderful gut healing properties.
Q. What if I am Strep-B positive or have an infection and need antibiotics, will I still be able to use my placenta?
A. Strep-B, GBS or any other vaginal infection requires you request only TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) capsules. What does this mean...? The placenta is steamed before encapsulation to ensure the bacteria is killed before the dehydrating process. This is also backed up with microbial studies. Tincture is still safe as the alcohol also treats the bacteria. ***There is an extremely detailed, researched and referenced response I’ve added to the bottom of this page for you to have a read if you would like further detail ***
Q. Can I choose more than 1 method?
A. Yes. Some women find benefit in using a combination of Simple and TCM. The Simple method offers more energy availability and quicker hormone stability, whereas the TCM offers relaxation and calm but still offers the ability to balance hormones (kind of like a single Vs double shot of coffee). You can choose to add Tincture as well so you have lifetime availability of balancing and healing.
Q. How can I be sure the placenta capsules are from MY placenta?
A. As an AHPRA Registered Nurse& Midwife I follow medical identification processes. As part of my business contract I will ask you to sign a document stating you consent to your placenta being released into my care & will use 4 different identification points (full name, DOB, Address and Medicare Number). This is then matched to the hospital identification at time of collection to guarantee no errors. During preparation and processing only 1 placenta is processed at a time to ensure no errors are made or any chance of cross-contamination. Equipment is either sterilised or discarded (environmentally mindful methods) adhering to Australian food handlers guidelines, which I hold a current and valid certificate for.
Q. How many capsules will my placenta make?
A. On average a placenta will provide between 90 - 300 capsules depending on size and methods used. The placenta is treated with the upmost care and respect to assure no wastage.
Q. Is there an option for a keepsake?
A. Yes I am happy to dehydrate the umbilical cord for you. Some cultures choose to gift it to the child when they become an adult or alternatively plant it with a tree so they can grow together.
Q. When can’t my placenta be encapsulated?
A. If your placenta is sent to Pathology for investigations or testing it will be contaminated so therefore can’t be used. If you are taking any regular medications please let me know so I can let you know if encapsulation is recommended. If you have a positive Group B Strep swab or other suspected conditions please let me know. When Group B Strep is confirmed TCM method is safe, the Simple method unfortunately is not recommended.
Q. What happens if my placenta is stained with meconium?
A. Meconium is sterile, does not contain the faecal bacteria that normal stool does and therefore is perfectly safe to continue with encapsulation. Meconium is only of concern when a baby inhales it during labour, but is otherwise harmless. If your placenta is heavily stained I will wash it thoroughly with organic apple cider vinegar before the encapsulation preparation. I will advise you once I have assessed it and notify you if this is required.
Q. If I have a C-Section, induction, instrumental birth or medications during labour can I still have my placenta encapsulated?
A. Yes. This doesn’t effect the health of the placenta.
Q. How should I store my placenta capsules?
A. Placenta capsules can be stored in the jar provided in a cool, dark place for 6 months OR transferred to a freezer for later use. It is very important that simple placenta capsules are consumed within 6 months.
Q. I’ve heard the placenta is full of waste and may contain toxins, is this true?
A. No. Your placenta acted as the life supply for your baby during pregnancy and if it were full of toxins this would make a very dangerous organ for your baby to be fed from so in fact it is not possible for the placenta to be ‘full of waste’. The placenta acted as a gateway for nutrient supply to your baby and waste from your baby to be passed back to your body to be filtered through your organs.
Q. How do I get my placenta to you after I have given birth?
A. I come to the hospital once you notify me you have given birth. I respect this is a special bonding time so I won’t visit you at this time (unless you want me to). I will show your signed document to the birth suit Midwife stating your consent for your placenta to be released into my care. I use 4 different identification points (Full Name, DOB, Address and Medicare Number) and match this to the hospital identification to guarantee it is your placenta.
Q. How long can my placenta be refrigerated before processing?
A. Placentas can be stored in the fridge for up to 72hours. If you notify staff you wish to have your placenta encapsulated, they will label and place your placenta in the fridge ready for collection. Hospital policy states the placenta is labelled before it leaves the birth suit after it has been examined. If for some reason this timeframe can’t be met it can be stored in a freezer. This is what I had to do with my placenta, as my hospital stay was longer than expected. I make it my priority to collect and process as quickly as possible to prevent any delays.
Q. Can I still choose to have delayed cord clamping?
A. Absolutely! As a Midwife I am a huge advocate for delayed cord clamping and the benefits it offers. delayed cord clamping has no negative affects on the placenta. If you would like to learn more about delayed cord clamping please follow the link > https://youtu.be/W3RywNup2CM Again this just shows how amazing the placenta is!
Q. Can I have my placenta encapsulated if I am diagnosed with pre-eclampsia?
A. Placenta encapsulation is not contra-indicated for mothers with pre-eclampsia. Studies indicate women who have had pre-eclampsia have report the same benefits of using placenta capsules. The cause of pre-eclampsia is still not well understood or exactly how to prevent it, and although the placenta does seem to play a part, it is not unfit for consumption. After your birth, your placenta will be examined for irregularities as part of standard practice.
Q. Can I have my placenta encapsulated if my baby is premature?
A. Yes, mothers of premature babies need all the help they can get (every mother needs help in reality) bringing in their milk (if they choose to breastfeed), healing quickly, and balancing post-natal mood (it can be a bit of a rollercoaster journey). As long as your placenta is examined and cleared for any type of abnormality after birth I’m happy to encapsulate it.
Q. How soon will I receive my Capsules and/ or Tincture?
A. I process each placenta within an hour of collecting it from the hospital. I endeavour to deliver your capsules to you within 48 hours after collection (excluding Placenta Tincture, which takes longer to produce). However Weekends, Public Holidays and severe weather conditions may cause delays, if that looks to be the case I will inform you. If I am unable to collect the placenta within 72 hours I will ask you to have your placenta taken home and frozen (defrosting the placenta in the fridge can take 12 hours once collected). As soon as your capsules or tincture are ready I will contact you to confirm the delivery address (Hospital, Home etc.).
Q. I live out of town will you still deliver my products?
A. We can discuss this during your consultation. I currently support the Albury-Wodonga and surrounding areas but may be willing to travel further depending on circumstances or organise specialised postage/ courier. Or if you are still in the Maternity Ward or your baby is being cared for in the Special Care Nursery I am more than happy to deliver them to you at the hospital.
Still have a question? Please contact me via phone, Facebook messenger or email.
Group B Strep and Encapsulation
Q. Is it safe? I’ve read it’s dangerous. Someone told me I have a positive Group B Strep result so it’s not safe, is this true?
A. So the short answer is yes IF specific criteria is followed. To answer fully is a lot more detailed. I’ll discuss what Group B Strep (otherwise referred to as GBS) actually is, an infamous article about ‘risk’, and recommendations in terms of encapsulation and why.
Let us enter the world of microbiomes (aka bacteria).
Group B Strep or GBS (scientific name: Streptococcus agalactiae) is a bacteria that lives on everyone’s skin and especially thrives in mucous membranes. Colonization does not mean that a mother has an active GBS infection. A positive result from a GBS swab test simply means there’s an abundance of GBS bacteria in the vaginal canal; this may lead to a newborn infection if the baby is also colonized during the birth process. Most babies that are exposed to GBS are healthy and do not become infected. However, when newborn infection does occur it can be dangerous and should be taken very seriously.
GBS is destroyed after being exposed to moist heat at a temperature of 55° C or greater for 30 minutes (1), which is why Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) method of encapsulation method is recommended for known GBS instances. Preliminary data released by Dr. Sophia Johnson from Jena University in Germany found that in properly prepared placenta capsules, there were no unsafe organisms found (2). The steaming and dehydration process was found to drastically reduce microbial counts. In addition to microbial testing, the study also looked at potential toxins, such as heavy metals, and also found that the levels were all well below acceptable limits.
Medicine has long assumed the placenta remained sterile in the womb until studies in 2014 disproved this. It’s now thought of in a similar context to the mouth, in terms of bacteria is present but is balanced and doesn’t inflict harm on the individual as it is recognised by their body as not being foreign (3). Interestingly the passing of bacteria through cord blood was confirmed when cord blood samples, taken from healthy babies born via C-section, contained bacteria. The theatre environment and sampling methods were sterile, so samples were free of external environmental contaminants (4). These finding confirm the womb as non-sterile. So in summary yes there are microbes present, but they are unique to your body.
So…microbes are present but when is it a concern? There was a single case (please note the term single and the fact that it was case not a study), published by the American Centre for Disease Control in 2016, describing a late-onset infection in a neonate from group B streptococci (GBS) (5). If you do a Google Search this would be the number one article used to ‘highlight the dangers’ of placenta encapsulation by the media. Interestingly the author chose not to disclose the fact that GBS bacteria although present in the mothers placenta capsules and infant’s blood, were not present in the breastmilk of the mother. So even though ingested, the bacteria was destroyed by the mother’s digestive system. Therefore it is instead presumed the bacteria was transferred during birth and possibly re-infected again in hospital, as breastmilk was confirmed not to be the source. Further investigation brought to light suspicion of questionable encapsulation preparation and the ‘simple method’ capsules were most probably prepared at temperatures below 60ºC.
This is why I use an electronic thermometer and timers when undertaking the steaming and dehydrating process, maintaining consistent heat above 60ºC and recommend TCM capsulation method for positive GBS instances.
1. Streptococcus agalactia E, Pathogen Safety Data Sheet, Public Health Agency of Canada. April
2. Johnson, S. A scientific approach to placenta remedies: What hormones are found in placenta tissue? Preliminary Research Results. April 11, 2017. https://experiment.com/u/DKKnUQ
3. Aagaard K, Ma J, Antony K M. The placenta harbors a unique microbiome. Sci Transl Med. 2014;6:237.
4. Jimenez E, Fernandez L, Marin M L. Isolation of commensal bacteria from umbilical cord blood of healthy neonates born by cesarean section. Curr Microbiol. 2005;51:270–274.
5. Buser G L, Mató S, Zhang A Y. Notes from the Field: Late-Onset Infant Group B Streptococcus Infection Associated with Maternal Consumption of Capsules Containing Dehydrated Placenta – Oregon, 2016. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 2017;66:677–678.
