Can I Have A Lotus Birth If I Encapsulate My Placenta?

A lotus birth is a ceremony honoring the connection between baby and placenta and allows baby a gentle separation into the world. During a lotus birth, the placenta is left attached to the baby, allowing for a natural separation in the several days that follow. The placenta is typically salted to aid it in drying out more quickly.

A traditional lotus birth is not compatible with placental encapsulation as it renders the placenta unfit for consumption.

There are two alternative options, in which case, benefits could be obtained from each method.

The first option is to leave the baby attached to the placenta for up to four hours, allowing the baby a gentle transition. The cord could then be cut at that time, and the placenta refrigerated. It is important not to leave the placenta out of the refrigerator for more than four hours. Also, the placenta should not be salted in this circumstance.

The second option would be to cut the portion of the placenta you intend to encapsulate and place it in the refrigerator. The rest of the placenta could then be followed through with the lotus birth ceremony. You would not, however, have full benefits of either method with this option. You would end up with less placenta capsules, no cord keepsake, and not a full lotus birth. However, if both a lotus birth and encapsulating your placenta is important to you, this could be a viable solution.