I chatted with Nikki Welling, the founder of Cherished Placentas, to find out more about the process. Nikki set up the company after suffering from postnatal depression after the birth of her first son and researching placenta encapsulation. We spoke about how the placenta has often been seen as a ‘taboo’ organ. I remember when Kim Kardashian made headlines from her own encapsulation journey – and viewers’ comments saying, “How can you eat your own placenta?” and “It is a waste product from childbirth”. Judging from the rhetoric surrounding Vick Hope’s decision to save her placenta, times haven’t changed.
While there’s no solid medical stance on whether eating your placenta is good or bad for you, we know that the placenta has plenty of hormones, stem cells, protein, iron, and essential fats, as well as vitamins B complex, A, D & K. However, some experts have also warned that the scientific evidence in this area is inconclusive – and that the benefits could be a result of the placebo effect.
Anyone considering placenta encapsulation is advised to consult their GP in advance, and, if considering encapsulation, to thoroughly research the company to ensure safety guidelines are followed.
For me, the process was simple. I filled out a form, and a few days later, a box arrived at my door containing everything we needed for the encapsulation. Our freezer was filled with four ice packs, laid flat, that I was instructed to bring with me to the hospital when I went into labour. Before the birth, I joined a WhatsApp group with Nikki and my birth partners, George (my partner) and my mum. I was told to simply drop a text into this chat when Louis made his grand appearance.
After the birth, my midwife double-bagged my placenta and slotted it in between the ice packs. I then had the option to drop it off at my local Post Office, or arrange a home collection.
Placenta Capsules
Cherished Placenta Package
A few days later, I had a delivery at my door, ready for me to start my postpartum recovery journey – it’s safe to say I have never felt better. I have taken these capsules regularly for the past four months, taking a few days off to see if I noticed a difference in my energy levels, which I did.
As I write this while breastfeeding my son, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for having chosen this journey.
This article reflects one writer’s experience. For healthcare advice, it’s always recommended to book an appointment with your GP to discuss what’s right for you. You can find your local GP here.
For more from GLAMOUR’s Commerce Photo Editor, Néamh Randall, follow her on Instagram @neamhrandall