The Benefits
Milk Production
One study showed 48 women had markedly increased milk production in the first four days, with the remainder following suit over the next three days.
Increased Iron Levels
Studies have shown that postpartum depression responds favorably to iron supplementation. Placentas contain iron that can aid in replenishing a postpartum woman's iron levels, reducing the risk of postpartum depression.
Moms Surveyed
A survey of women reported benefits from taking their capsules and felt that their postpartum experience was a positive one.
Pain Relief
Recent research shows that placentas contain a molecule (POEF, placental–opioid-enhancing Factor) that modifies the activity of endogenous opioids in such a way that produces an enhancement of natural reduction in pain.
Mood Elevation
Reintroducing lost hormones into the mother's system may help prevent postpartum depression from setting in due to low hormone levels.
Overall Healing
Thyroid Stimulating Hormones in the placenta can support recovery from stressful events. Cortisone, also found in the placenta, reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
Your placenta is full of hormones and nutrients which can make your transition into motherhood smoother.
Estrogen, Progesterone, Testosterone: Contributes to mammary gland development in preparation for lactation; stabilizes postpartum mood; regulates post-birth uterine cramping; decreases depression; normalizes and stimulates libido.
Prolactin: Promotes lactation; increases milk supply; enhances the mothering instinct.
Oxytocin: Decreases pain and increases bonding in mother and infant; counteracts the production of stress hormones such as Cortisol; greatly reduces postpartum bleeding; enhances the breastfeeding let-down reflex.
Placental Opioid-Enhancing Factor (POEF): Stimulates the production of your body’s natural opioids, including endorphins; reduces pain; increases well-being.
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone: Regulates the thyroid gland; boosts energy and supports recovery from stressful events.
Corticotropin Releasing Hormone (CRH): Low levels of CRH are implicated in postpartum depression. Regulation of CRH helps prevent depression.
Cortisone: Reduces inflammation and swelling; promotes healing.
Interferon: Triggers the protective defenses of the immune system to fight infection.
Prostaglandins: Regulates contractions in the uterus after birth; helps uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size. Anti-inflammatory effects.
Iron: Replenishes maternal iron stores to combat anemia, a common postpartum condition. Increases energy; decreases fatigue and depression.
Hemoglobin: Oxygen-carrying molecule which provides a boost in energy.
Urokinase Inhibiting Factor and Factor XIII: stops bleeding and enhances wound healing.
Immunoglobulin G (IgG): Antibody molecules which support the immune system.
Human Placental Lactogen (hPL): This hormone has lactogenic and growth-promoting properties; promotes mammary gland growth in preparation for lactation in the mother. It also regulates maternal glucose, protein, and fat levels.