The placenta is a temporary organ that forms within the uterus during pregnancy. It connects the developing fetus to the mother, acting as a lifeline. This organ facilitates the transfer of oxygen and vital nutrients from the maternal bloodstream to the baby through the umbilical cord. It also efficiently removes waste products, such as carbon dioxide, from the fetus’s blood, returning them to the mother’s system for excretion. The placenta also produces hormones that support the pregnancy and contribute to the baby’s growth and development.
Placenta’s Role in Postpartum Recovery
Some individuals choose to ingest or utilize the placenta after birth, often through encapsulation, believing it offers various maternal postpartum health benefits. Anecdotal accounts suggest consuming the placenta may help improve mood, increase energy levels, reduce symptoms associated with postpartum depression, and enhance milk production. This practice, known as placentophagy, has historical and cultural roots in various societies.
Despite these claims, scientific evidence supporting the specific benefits of placenta consumption is largely limited and inconclusive. Research indicates that while some hormones and minerals are present in encapsulated placenta, their levels may not be sufficient to elicit significant physiological effects. Many reported benefits are not yet supported by rigorous, large-scale clinical trials, and some studies suggest any perceived improvements might be attributed to a placebo effect. Concerns also exist regarding potential risks, including bacterial contamination if the placenta is not handled and processed properly.
Medical and Research Applications
Beyond postpartum use, the placenta and umbilical cord are valuable sources of stem cells with established and emerging medical applications. Umbilical cord blood contains hematopoietic stem cells, capable of developing into various blood cell types, including those of the immune system. These cells have been used in over 40,000 transplants globally and are approved for treating over 80 diseases, such as blood disorders like leukemia and anemia, and certain immune system disorders.
The umbilical cord tissue is a rich source of mesenchymal stem cells, distinct from hematopoietic stem cells. These mesenchymal stem cells hold promise for future therapeutic uses in regenerative medicine, with ongoing clinical trials exploring their potential for conditions such as cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder, and heart disease. Their ability to regulate immune responses, reduce inflammation, and stimulate tissue repair is a focus of current research.
Parents can choose to bank their baby’s cord blood and tissue through public or private banking options. Public banks store donated cells for use by any patient in need of a transplant, making them available to a wider population. Private banks store the cells exclusively for the donor family’s potential future use, providing a readily available source for the child or close relatives.
Practical Considerations for Saving
For those considering saving the placenta or umbilical cord components, understanding the practical aspects is important. The collection, processing, and storage of cord blood and tissue are subject to regulations by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States. Cord blood banks must adhere to strict protocols to ensure safety and quality, and many also seek accreditation from organizations like the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB).
In contrast, services for placenta encapsulation are largely unregulated, raising concerns about safety standards and potential risks like bacterial contamination from improper handling. Some organizations provide training and guidelines for placenta encapsulation specialists, but oversight varies. The financial investment for private cord blood banking typically includes an initial processing fee ranging from $1,500 to $3,000, along with annual storage fees between $150 and $300. Public cord blood banking does not typically incur direct costs for the donor family.
Making an informed decision about saving the placenta or cord components involves discussing options with healthcare providers, such as doctors or midwives. They can offer guidance tailored to individual health situations and provide insights into the scientific basis for different methods. Consulting with these professionals helps families weigh the benefits and considerations of each choice.