Planning Placenta Encapsulation: What to Expect, When to Book, and How We Keep It Safe
Preparing for birth is a beautiful mix of anticipation and intention, and it’s natural to want your postpartum to feel supported, steady, and calm. If placenta encapsulation is part of your plan, you deserve to know exactly how it works, when to schedule it, and how we protect your safety from pickup to the final capsule. Consider this your gentle, step-by-step guide so you feel informed, cared for, and in control.
When to Reserve Your Service
The simplest way to ensure a smooth experience is to reserve your placenta encapsulation by or before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Booking early allows you to:
- Add placenta release to your birth plan
- Talk with your provider about any required hospital paperwork
- Receive pickup instructions well before labor begins
- Avoid worrying about logistics once labor starts
If you’re already past 37 weeks, reach out anyway. We try our best to accommodate last-minute bookings. If you’re in the San Antonio area, contact us to reserve your service at Placenta Encapsulation San Antonio.
What to Bring to the Hospital or Birth Center
To prepare for placenta pickup, pack the following in your birth bag:
- A small cooler (the hospital will provide the ice)
- Two clean gallon-sized ziplock bags
Your placenta will be double-bagged for safety and placed in your cooler surrounded by ice. Be sure to:
- Mention your encapsulation plan to your provider
- Ask if your hospital uses a specific release form
- Note the request in your chart
There’s no hospital charge to take your placenta home. Your only responsibility is bringing the cooler and bags. Once labor begins, send us a quick message so we’re ready for prompt pickup, day or night.
How Safe Processing Works from Start to Finish
Your safety is our top priority. From pickup to encapsulation, our process follows strict food handling and sanitation guidelines:
- The placenta is handled on sanitized surfaces with single-use barriers
- It is rinsed thoroughly to remove clots and residual blood
- Dehydration is done at controlled temperatures to destroy common pathogens
- All equipment is sanitized per OSHA guidelines
In-Home or Pickup/Drop Off Processing
You choose what feels best:
- Pickup/Drop Off: We pick up the placenta and deliver capsules to you in the hospital or your home
- In-home preparation: We bring tools, work in your kitchen, and clean thoroughly before and after
Either way, you receive respectful, careful service and clear instructions on storage and capsule use.
What to Expect in Timing and Communication
We coordinate pickup around your birth for same-day or next-day processing:
- Most pickups happen shortly after delivery
- Encapsulation begins quickly to preserve freshness
- Capsules are delivered within 24–48 hours, depending on the dehydration schedule
- We check in throughout the process to update you on pickup, progress, and delivery
If you’ve requested any keepsakes, like a placenta print or tincture, we’ll confirm at pickup and include them in your package.
How Many Capsules You Will Receive on Average
Placenta size and density vary, so capsule count differs from person to person. Most clients receive:
- 60 to 120 capsules, packaged in labeled storage bottles
- A usage guide with dosing recommendations and wellness tips
- A complementary umbilical cord keepsake
If you experience fever or an infection like mastitis, pause capsule use and resume after recovery with your provider’s approval. You’re welcome to reach out with any questions about dosing, timing, or how capsules interact with other supplements.
How to Use Your Capsules Thoughtfully in the Fourth Trimester
The goal is a peaceful, balanced postpartum experience, and placenta capsules are one tool to support you.
You will receive specific dosing guidelines at the time of service, but as an overview, many parents:
- Use a higher dose during the first week when hormone shifts are strongest
- Taper to a steady rhythm as mood and energy stabilize
- Take a capsule earlier in the day on days they feel tired, weepy, or overwhelmed
Pair your capsule use with:
- Nourishing meals
- Rest and hydration
- Lactation support (if breast or chestfeeding)
Check in with your body regularly, and if you need help adjusting your plan, we’re always here with friendly, personalized guidance.
What Happens to Your Placenta During Encapsulation
Once your placenta is picked up, it is:
- Cleaned and rinsed
- Dehydrated at controlled temperatures
- Ground into fine powder
- Encapsulated in vegan capsules
Optional Keepsakes Include:
- A placenta print that highlights the tree-like vein pattern
- A placenta tincture using a small piece of placenta and high-grade alcohol
Everything is clearly labeled, stored safely, and delivered with care so you can begin when you’re ready.
Helpful Prep Tips:
- Add placenta release to your birth plan
- Pack your cooler and ziplock bags early
- Share your wishes with your labor nurse
- Consider comfort items like adult diapers and cozy clothing for the early days at home
Your Next Step
If placenta encapsulation is part of your postpartum plan:
- Reserve your service now so all the details are in place before labor
- You’ll receive clear instructions, timely pickup, and caring communication
- We’ll help you feel informed, supported, and ready for the fourth trimester
A peaceful postpartum begins with thoughtful preparation, and we’re honored to be part of your journey. Reach out today to ask questions, reserve your date, or learn more about the benefits of placenta encapsulation.
