Image credits to placentatree.com
We are still getting over the shock of knowing that January Jones ate her own placenta after the birth of her baby. Funnily enough she spoke about it like it is the most normal thing to be done post childbirth. We investigated, being the curious bunch we are. It has been said that we are the only mammal that do not eat our placenta. It is however quite important for us to establish why other mammals eat their placenta after childbirth.Animals in the wilderness eat their placenta to avoid being preyed on by other predator, eliminating all trace of childbirth. It is also because they need the nutrients from it, assuming there is any, seeing that they will be too weak to hunt for food.
Consuming the placenta after childbirth amongst us human is not exactly mainstream. That being said, there are some cultures that practises this. It is believed that a new mum’s postnatal depression can be reduced significantly and it gives them energy.
The placenta is also said to contain high levels of prostaglandin which stimulates involution of the uterus, in effect cleaning the uterus out. Small amounts of oxytocin which eases birth stress and causes the smooth muscles around the mammary cells to contract and eject milk is also apart of its value.
The general opinion in the medical world is that , humans do not need to practise this due to the fact that we are able to get our food from a proper channel during confinement , and the security of our newborn is not exactly at risk.
Those advocating it claims it is foolish to throw out the placenta and label it human waste because consuming it is the best thing you can do for yourself and your child. A quick google search came up with placenta recipes so we know they are serious about it!
Tell us what you think about this whole scenario. We were amused, but not so much now.