Placentophagia in Tribal and Modern Societies: Navigating the Thin Line Between Risk and Benefit

Abstract

Objective: Eating the placenta after birth, or placentophagia, is common in mammals but questionable in humans. There is little scientific evidence to support the claims made by practitioners that it promotes lactation, prevents depression, and aids in postpartum healing.

Materials and methods: This paper reviews the historical background, cultural relevance, ethical considerations, advantages, and potential risks of human placentophagia. The placenta does contain hormones and nutrients, but their efficacy and bioavailability have not been established. Furthermore, safety concerns (such as bacteria and endocrine disturbance) raise doubts about its practice.

Results: Placentophagia is not recommended by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention because the production of human placentophagy products is unregulated and presents potential health risks.

Conclusion: This review considers the benefits or harms of placentophagia on human health, summarizes recent studies, addresses ethical and medical viewpoints, and emphasizes the need for further research.