The Power of the Placenta: Nature’s Gift in Birth and Beyond
During pregnancy, few organs are as miraculous — and as overlooked — as the placenta. Often called the “Tree of Life,” the placenta serves as a vital connection between parent and baby throughout gestation, providing nourishment, oxygen, and protection.
As a doula, I believe understanding and honoring the placenta can deepen your appreciation for the incredible work your body does during pregnancy and birth — and can inspire meaningful choices about how you want to care for your placenta after delivery.
The Placenta’s Incredible Role
From the moment of conception, your body begins crafting this extraordinary organ. The placenta grows from the same fertilized egg as your baby, becoming the baby’s lifeline. It delivers oxygen and nutrients, filters waste, and even produces hormones that support pregnancy and prepare your body for labor and breastfeeding.
By the time your baby is born, the placenta has performed months of unseen but essential work — a true partner in the journey of creation.
Honoring the Placenta After Birth
Around the world, many cultures hold deep reverence for the placenta. Some families choose to:
🌱 Bury the Placenta: Returning it to the earth beneath a tree or plant as a symbol of life, growth, and renewal.
🕊️ Create Placenta Art: Pressing the placenta on paper to create a “Tree of Life” print before encapsulation or disposal.
💊 Encapsulate It: Preserving it through encapsulation to support postpartum recovery.
🌸 Hold a Blessing or Ritual: Offering gratitude for the placenta’s role in sustaining the baby’s life.
These practices serve as a reminder that birth isn’t just a medical event — it’s a deeply sacred transition.
Modern Placenta Care Options
Today, many families are rediscovering traditional ways to honor their placenta while incorporating safe, modern methods.
Options include:
Placenta Encapsulation: Transforming your placenta into capsules for daily use.
Tinctures or Salves: Creating long-lasting remedies that can support wellness beyond the postpartum period.
Keepsakes: Using a small portion to create jewelry or prints that commemorate your birth experience.
As your doula, I provide respectful, safe placenta services and can help you decide which options best align with your values and healing goals.
Honoring Your Birth Story
Your placenta tells a story — a story of connection, nourishment, and the deep wisdom of the body. However you choose to care for it, taking a moment to honor its role can bring an added layer of meaning and mindfulness to your birth experience.
Want to learn more about placenta care or encapsulation?
🌿 Reach out today to discover how I can help you honor your placenta and support your postpartum recovery with care, respect, and intention.
