Frequently Asked Questions
How soon do I need to get my placenta to you?
Ideally within 24 hours of birth. If that’s not possible, the placenta must be refrigerated within 2 hours of birth or frozen within 24–48 hours.
Do you pick up from hospitals and home births?
Yes — I offer placenta pick-up from all hospitals and home births within Tucson.
If you are outside Tucson city limits, please contact me to discuss availability and any additional travel fees.
Is placenta encapsulation safe?
Placenta encapsulation is generally considered safe when the placenta has been properly handled and stored after birth. I follow strict sanitation practices, use dedicated equipment, and maintain food-handling standards for each encapsulation.
However, there is always a small risk of bacterial contamination with any organ tissue. Please let me know if you develop an infection during labor or postpartum so I can advise you appropriately.
How long does the process take?
Typical turnaround is 72 hours from the time I receive your placenta. If prints, keepsakes, or truffles are added, it may take slightly longer, but I will stay in touch with an estimated delivery time.
Can I encapsulate if I have a C-section?
Yes! As long as there is no infection and the placenta has been handled properly by the hospital, encapsulation is usually still an option.
Can I encapsulate if I’m GBS positive?
Many providers still encapsulate with GBS+ status as long as you did not develop a fever during labor. Always consult your care team, and let me know your GBS status when booking.
How many capsules will I get?
Most placentas yield 75–200 capsules, depending on size and the preparation method. Raw preparation typically yields more.
When should I start taking the capsules?
Most parents begin within a few days postpartum. I provide a gentle dosage guideline to support your recovery and sensitivity.
What if I’m induced, get an epidural, or use other interventions?
Induction, epidurals, Pitocin, and most routine birth interventions do not affect your ability to encapsulate.
What if I deliver early, unexpectedly, or my birth plan changes?
Placentas can still be encapsulated if you deliver early. If your birth happens sooner than expected, please contact me as soon as possible so we can arrange timely placenta pick-up. I’m here to support you through any changes in your plan.
Can I still get a placenta keepsake, tincture, or truffles without getting capsules?
Yes! You can order a keepsake package, tincture, or truffles independently, or add them when purchasing capsules.
What hospital policies should I know about?
Some hospitals require you to sign a release form, or simply need to be informed ahead of time. Let your provider know your plan to keep your placenta, and include it in your birth plan so it is not discarded.
Can I freeze my placenta?
Yes! If the placenta cannot be picked up immediately, it can be frozen to preserve freshness:
Refrigerate the placenta as soon as possible after birth.
If it will be more than 3–4 days before the placenta can be prepared, it should be frozen.
Wrap it securely in plastic or place it in a sealed bag, then put it in a freezer-safe container.
Label it clearly with your name, birth date, and the date it was frozen.
Keep it frozen during transport in a cooler with ice packs when it’s time for encapsulation.
Note: A frozen placenta may require an extra one to two days for gentle thawing before preparation.
How long can a placenta be frozen?
Although it’s best to process the placenta as soon as possible, it can be frozen to maintain freshness for up to three to six months.
What if my placenta goes to pathology?
Sometimes a placenta cannot be used for encapsulation, such as when abnormalities require it to be sent to pathology. Your placenta must not be treated with alcohol, formalin, or other preservatives. You can request that only a small sample be sent, while the rest can be taken home and frozen until it is deemed safe. Always ask staff to notify you before sending your placenta so you can make an informed decision.
What should I bring for my placenta / what supplies are needed at the hospital?
To make the pick-up process smooth, it’s helpful to come prepared. Most hospitals will store your placenta, but bringing a small cooler with ice packs is recommended just in case. Ask your nurse to clearly label the placenta “SAVE — DO NOT DISCARD” and double-bag it. Make sure your partner or support person knows your plan, and if you plan to take the placenta home before I arrive, it must remain refrigerated or on ice. These steps help ensure your placenta stays safe and fresh until it can be collected for encapsulation.st hospitals will store your placenta for you, but I recommend bringing a small cooler just in case. Ask your nurse to clearly label the placenta “SAVE — DO NOT DISCARD” and double-bag it. If you plan to take it home before I arrive, it must remain refrigerated or on ice.
How do I contact you when I’m in labor?
Please text me when you are in active labor or shortly after baby is born. I will coordinate pick-up based on your timing and location.
How should I store the capsules?
Store them in a cool, dry place. For long-term use (6+ months), keeping them in the freezer is ideal.