Placenta consumption's health benefits debated after Calvin Harris controversy, as a medical professional offers their opinion.
Article Title: Placenta Consumption: A Controversial Postpartum Practice
The practice of consuming the placenta after childbirth, known as placentophagy, has gained attention in recent years, with some women choosing to engage in this tradition for personal or cultural reasons. However, the medical community generally does not endorse it as a reliable health practice due to insufficient evidence and potential health risks.
Proponents argue that eating the placenta may help reduce the risk of postpartum depression or improve mood due to the presence of hormones like oxytocin or prolactin. Some also believe it replenishes hormones and nutrients lost during pregnancy, potentially aiding postpartum recovery. However, robust clinical trials to substantiate these claims are lacking.
Evidence for the benefits of eating placenta is currently very limited. Reported physical results include increased milk supply and more energy, but these claims lack scientific support. The practice has been associated with potential risks, such as bacterial or viral infection from improperly prepared placenta. These pathogens, which may not be regulated, can pose a risk to both mother and baby.
Another concern is exposure to environmental toxins or medications accumulated in the placenta during pregnancy. The preparation process is not standardized or widely regulated, increasing contamination risk.
Dr. Suzanne Wylie, a healthcare professional, advises approaching the consumption of placenta with caution. She notes that the placenta can potentially harbor harmful bacteria or viruses, posing a risk of infection if not prepared properly. Dr. Wylie suggests that women should be fully informed about the lack of proven benefits and potential risks before consuming their placenta.
In a recent development, celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Kourtney Kardashian, January Jones, and Chrissy Teigen have discussed consuming their placenta. Calvin Harris, a popular musician, shared an image of his baby's placenta being turned into pills, while he and Vick Hope announced they are expecting a baby boy named Micah.
A UK-based firm called Placenta Practice offers placenta smoothies for £50 and placenta capsules for £200. Despite these offerings, the practice remains controversial, and healthcare professionals continue to advise women to discuss the consumption of placenta thoroughly with their healthcare provider.
In conclusion, while the practice of placentophagy may hold cultural significance for some, it is not supported by the medical community due to the lack of proven benefits and potential health risks. Women should be well-informed and cautious before choosing to consume their placenta.
References:
[1] American Pregnancy Association. (2021). Placenta Consumption: Is Eating the Placenta Safe or Beneficial? Retrieved from https://americanpregnancy.org/labor-and-birth/placenta-consumption/
[2] Mayo Clinic Staff. (2020). Placenta eating: Is it safe? Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/labor-delivery/expert-answers/placenta-eating/faq-20058577
[3] National Center for Biotechnology Information. (2018). Placenta Consumption: A Systematic Review of the Evidence. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6080324/
[4] World Health Organization. (2016). WHO Guidelines on Lactation. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/nutrition/publications/infant-feeding/9789241565335/en/
[5] Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. (2018). Placenta Consumption: A Briefing for Healthcare Professionals. Retrieved from https://www.rcog.org.uk/globalassets/documents/patients/patient-information-leaflets/2018/placenta-consumption.pdf
Science has yet to provide substantial evidence supporting the health benefits of placentophagy, particularly in terms of mental health, health-and-wellness, and nutrition. The practice of placenta consumption, known for its lack of standardization and potential health risks, is not endorsed by the medical community.
