Placenta Consumption: No Clinical Benefit and Potential Harm
There is no scientific evidence supporting any clinical benefit from consuming placenta postpartum, and this practice should be actively discouraged due to documented infectious risks, including neonatal group B Streptococcus sepsis. 1
Evidence Against Placentophagy
Absence of Proven Benefits
- No placental nutrients or hormones are retained in sufficient amounts after placenta encapsulation to provide any potential benefit to the mother postpartum. 1
- All claimed benefits—including prevention of postpartum depression, increased breast milk production, improved energy, and enhanced mood—are based solely on anecdotal self-reports and lack any rigorous scientific validation. 1, 2
- Despite 73.1% of women consuming placenta specifically to prevent postpartum depression, no evidence currently exists to support this strategy. 3
Documented Risks
- The CDC issued a warning after a newborn developed recurrent neonatal group B Streptococcus sepsis from maternal ingestion of contaminated placenta capsules containing Streptococcus agalactiae. 1
- The encapsulation process does not adequately eradicate infectious pathogens, creating direct risk to both mother and infant. 1
- Additional theoretical risks include thromboembolism from estrogens in placental tissue, bacterial or viral infections, and accumulation of environmental toxins. 4, 5
Clinical Recommendations
Counseling Approach
- Physicians should provide directive counseling that actively discourages placentophagy, clearly stating the documented risks and complete absence of clinical benefits. 1
- When women express interest in this practice, inform them about the CDC warning regarding infectious transmission and the lack of any retained beneficial compounds after processing. 1
- Clinicians must inquire about placenta ingestion history in any case of postpartum maternal or neonatal infections, particularly group B Streptococcus sepsis. 1
Evidence-Based Alternatives
- For postpartum depression prevention, discuss the range of evidence-based options including screening protocols, psychotherapy, and pharmacotherapy when indicated. 3
- For lactation support, recommend proven interventions such as proper latch technique, frequent feeding (8-12 times per 24 hours), and lactation consultation when needed. 6
Practice Implications
There is no professional responsibility for clinicians to offer placentophagy to pregnant women. 1 Health care organizations should develop clear clinical guidelines implementing a scientific approach that recognizes this practice as potentially harmful with no documented benefit. 1
The fact that 30.8% of women planning community births consume their placenta 3 highlights the need for proactive, evidence-based counseling during prenatal care to prevent this practice before delivery occurs.