Yup. The title is correct- this post is ALL ABOUT THE PLACENTA.

So, first off. What is a placenta? I hate the term "after birth" because it's sooo much more. It's your baby's first roommate, and it's super important. From mayo clinic:

The placenta is an organ that develops in your uterus during pregnancy. This structure provides oxygen and nutrients to your growing baby and removes waste products from your baby's blood. The placenta attaches to the wall of your uterus, and your baby's umbilical cord arises from it. In most pregnancies, the placenta attaches at the top or side of the uterus.

Most mom's don't even remember delivering a placenta, and haven't thought about KEEPING it. I didn't for either child, but wasn't aware there was an option.

1. Encapsulating the placenta.

Photo: http://enchanteddoula.com/

In order to do this, the placenta is dehydrated, shredded, and placed into pills that mom takes following the birth. It's a very old tradition that is becoming more and more popular in the western world. The benefits of this practice include:

Increased release of the hormone oxytocin, which helps the uterus return to normal size and encourages bonding with the infant
Increase in CRH, a stress-reducing hormone
Decrease in post-partum depression levels
Restoration of iron levels in the blood
Increase in milk production

There isn't a lot of research for consuming placenta, but it's something that occurs in nature and many mothers swear by it. You can also make it into a delightful smoothie, or bake it into a recipe such as lasagna.

2. Keepsake Placenta Jewelry

Photo: https://www.beyondthewillowtree.com/

This website will take a part of your placenta (or breastmilk, loved ones ashes, umbilical cord) and turn them into a gorgeous keepsake.

Beyond the Willowtree

3. Placenta Prints

When printed, they resemble the tree of life. Cool, huh?!

It's ALWAYS a good time for mimosas.

Whether you donate, create jewelry, encapsulate, or print your placenta, it's important to remember how awesome this organ is. What are your thoughts? I thought it was really cool to be a part of a placenta prints/encapsulation party!