The placenta, an organ that develops during pregnancy, provides oxygen and nutrients to the growing fetus and removes waste. This temporary organ connects the mother and baby via the umbilical cord. After birth, the placenta is delivered, and its handling often raises questions for new parents.
Hospital Disposal Protocols
Following birth, hospitals generally treat the placenta as biological medical waste. This classification aligns with other human tissues and bodily fluids that may carry pathogens. Standard protocols involve placing the placenta in a designated biohazard bag for disposal by a specialized medical waste service. These services typically incinerate the material to render biohazardous waste inert and prevent infection.
The primary reasons for these protocols include infection control and patient privacy. Handling biological materials requires adherence to universal precautions to protect healthcare workers and the public from exposure to bloodborne pathogens. Treating all human tissue uniformly as medical waste also streamlines procedures and ensures consistent handling. This standardized approach helps hospitals manage biological byproducts securely and efficiently.
Claiming Your Placenta
Parents can request possession of their placenta after birth, though the process varies. Many hospitals have policies allowing the release of the placenta to the birthing parent upon request. This often involves signing a consent form or release waiver, taking responsibility for the placenta once it leaves their care.
Requirements for claiming a placenta differ based on state regulations and hospital policies. Some facilities may require pickup within a certain timeframe after delivery. Expectant parents should discuss their intentions with their healthcare team in advance to understand the specific procedures and documentation at their chosen birthing facility.
Alternative Uses and Cultural Significance
Once claimed, individuals choose various paths for the placenta, from modern practices to cultural traditions. One common modern practice is placenta encapsulation, where the placenta is steamed, dehydrated, ground into a powder, and placed into capsules. Proponents suggest this practice may offer benefits like improved mood or increased milk supply, though scientific evidence remains limited. Another contemporary use involves creating placenta art, using the organ’s unique shape and vein patterns to make prints as a keepsake.
Placenta donation for research or educational purposes is also an option, contributing to scientific understanding of pregnancy and fetal development. Historically, the placenta holds significant meaning across many cultures. Some cultures practice ceremonial burial of the placenta, often beneath a newly planted tree, symbolizing a connection to the earth and new life. In certain traditions, the placenta is believed to possess spiritual properties or provide protection for the newborn.
Safety Considerations for Handling
When handling the placenta outside a medical setting, several safety considerations are important to prevent health risks. The placenta is biological tissue containing blood and can harbor bacteria or viruses. Improper handling or storage can lead to bacterial contamination, posing a risk if the placenta is intended for consumption or contacts food preparation surfaces. It is recommended to keep the placenta refrigerated or frozen if not immediately processed or disposed of, to inhibit microbial growth.
The lack of standardized regulation and scientific consensus for practices like placenta encapsulation means individuals should exercise caution. Organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have noted risks associated with consuming encapsulated placenta, including bacterial infections. Maintaining strict hygiene, using sterile equipment, and understanding that the placenta is perishable are important when considering alternative uses.