Placenta Encapsulation in Orange County
Placenta Capsules, Placenta Tincture & Umbilical Cord Keepsake
Placenta encapsulation is a postpartum practice many mothers choose to support their recovery after birth.
The placenta is carefully prepared, dehydrated, and placed into capsules that can be taken during the early postpartum weeks.
At OC Doula & Placenta Co., I provide professional placenta encapsulation services throughout Orange County, as well as nationwide placenta encapsulation shipping for families outside the area.
Each placenta is prepared individually with careful sanitation and attention so families can feel confident in the process.
Local Placenta Encapsulation (Orange County): $350 Nationwide Placenta Encapsulation: $500
Placenta encapsulation must begin shortly after birth, so it is recommended to reserve your service during pregnancy.
♡ Once booked, you will receive instructions for placenta storage, pickup, or shipping after your baby arrives.
If you are planning placenta encapsulation in Orange County or nationwide, I would be honored to help prepare this meaningful part of your postpartum recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions & Answers:
What Is Placenta Encapsulation?
Placenta encapsulation is the process of transforming the placenta into capsules that can be consumed during postpartum recovery. During pregnancy, the placenta plays an important role in supporting your baby by providing hormones, nutrients, and iron. After birth, some mothers choose to consume their placenta in capsule form as part of their postpartum recovery routine. Placenta encapsulation has become increasingly popular among mothers looking for holistic postpartum support and a more personalized recovery experience. While every experience is different, many mothers report benefits such as:
- increased energy levels
- support for postpartum hormone balance
- improved mood stability
- potential support for milk supply
- replenishment of iron levels
- reduced postpartum fatigue
- Emotional well-being and mood supported Placenta capsules are typically taken during the first several weeks after birth.
Disclaimer: Placenta encapsulation services provided by OC Doula & Placenta Co. are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Statements regarding potential benefits are based on traditional use, anecdotal experiences, and client-reported outcomes and have not been evaluated by the FDA. Clients should always consult with their licensed medical provider regarding personal health concerns and postpartum recovery decisions.
What Your Placenta Encapsulation Package Includes
Your placenta encapsulation service includes:
- Placenta capsules prepared from your placenta
- Placenta tincture for long-term hormonal support
- Umbilical cord keepsake as a meaningful remembrance from your birth
Capsules are returned in labeled containers along with guidance for postpartum use.
Placenta Preparation Methods
There are two primary methods used for placenta encapsulation.
Traditional Chinese Method Inspired Preparation
This preparation style includes gently steaming the placenta with warming herbs before dehydration. This method is inspired by traditional postpartum practices used in some cultures.Similar to lightly steaming vegetables. This process may reduce some nutrients but can offer an added layer of protection against bacteria.
Raw Dehydration Method
This method skips the steaming process and moves directly to dehydration. Some mothers prefer this approach because it preserves the placenta in its most natural state.This is the default preparation method unless otherwise requested. Both preparation styles result in dehydrated placenta powder placed into capsules.
Safety & Professional Preparation Standards
Your placenta is handled with the highest level of care and sanitation. As the owner of OC Doula & Placenta Co., I follow strict safety protocols and professional handling procedures to ensure your placenta is prepared safely and respectfully.
I am:
- Certified Placenta Encapsulation Specialist • Certified Medical Courier
- Bloodborne Pathogen Certified
- Food Handler Certified
- HIPAA Privacy & Compliance Certified
Placenta preparation follows universal precautions, meaning your placenta is handled using sanitation and safety standards designed to prevent cross contamination.
Every placenta is:
- prepared individually
- handled with sanitized equipment
- processed in a clean and controlled environment
- stored and transported following safe handling practices
These safety standards ensure that your placenta capsules are prepared with the highest level of care for you and your family.
Turnaround Time
Quick turnaround allows mothers to begin taking their capsules during the early postpartum recovery window when many mothers feel the benefits most.Placenta capsules are typically started once milk supply has come in.
Why Should I Reserve My Due Date?
Reserving your estimated due date helps ensure I have availability around the time your baby arrives. Because birth is unpredictable and I prioritize safety, sanitation, and individualized care, I only take on a limited number of placenta encapsulation clients at one time to properly handle each placenta with care and attention.
By reserving ahead of time, your service is prioritized around your delivery window so you can feel confident knowing your placenta encapsulation has already been planned for, even if labor begins unexpectedly or earlier than anticipated.
I understand that birth waits for no one, and I am always happy to accommodate unreserved or short-notice inquiries when possible. If you are reaching out close to your delivery or after birth, please still contact me, as I may have availability. However, pickup and service cannot be guaranteed for unreserved bookings.
Please note:
- Unreserved/short-notice bookings are subject to availability
- A $25 short-notice additional booking fee applies if arranged after birth
- Full payment and signed contract are required at the time of booking for unreserved services
How Do I Reserve My Estimated Due Date?
Reserving your estimated due date is simple. Begin by filling out the contact form. Once submitted, I will personally reach out to discuss your estimated due date, answer any questions, and walk you through the next steps.
To officially reserve your spot, a 50% deposit and signed service agreement are required. The remaining balance is due at the time of placenta pickup.
Your contract will include:
- Pickup and storage instructions
- Birth day preparation information
- Safe handling guidelines
- Encapsulation process details
- Communication expectations and next steps
Once your deposit and signed contract are received, your estimated due date is officially reserved.
What If I Didn’t Reserve My Placenta Due Date and I’m Reaching Out Now?
That’s completely okay — I understand that birth can be unpredictable, and sometimes placenta encapsulation is a decision made later in pregnancy or even after delivery. If you are reaching out without a prior reservation, please still contact me as soon as possible, as I may still have availability around your delivery window.
Unreserved or short-notice bookings are accepted based on current schedule availability and timing. While I am always happy to accommodate families when possible, pickup and service cannot be guaranteed without a prior reservation.
For unreserved bookings:
- A $25 short-notice booking fee applies
- Full payment is due at the time of booking
- A signed contract must be completed before pickup
- You will still receive full pickup, storage, and preparation instructions
The sooner you reach out after delivery or once you know you’d like encapsulation services, the better the chances of availability and timely pickup.
How Does the Placenta Encapsulation Process Work?
I’m so glad you’re reaching out and asking questions about placenta encapsulation. Placenta encapsulation has provided many mothers with meaningful postpartum support — but how exactly does the process work?
Before birth, you’ll purchase a disposable cooler from Amazon, Rite Aid, Target, Walmart, or your local grocery store. This cooler will travel with you to your birth location and will not be returned afterward.
I also strongly recommend:
- Adding placenta encapsulation to your birth plan
- Discussing it with your provider ahead of time
- Making sure your doula, partner, or support person reminds the staff
after delivery that you plan to keep your placenta After delivery, your provider will package the placenta according to their facility’s procedures. The placenta should be placed on ice as soon as possible and transferred into a refrigerator within 4 hours after birth. Once home, the placenta should be removed from the cooler and placed directly into the refrigerator.
If birth occurs during the day and timing allows, I may be able to pick up directly from your birth location. If delivery happens overnight, outside the local area, or for nationwide shipping clients, a designated support person may need to temporarily transport the placenta home and refrigerate it until pickup can be arranged, typically the following day.
If I am also serving as your doula, I will conveniently take the placenta with me after birth whenever possible.
Once received, I prepare your placenta using proper sanitation procedures, food-safe handling practices, and universal precautions throughout the entire encapsulation process.
Typical turnaround time is approximately 72 hours, and your completed placenta remedies are returned directly to your home or hospital whenever possible.
My Doctor Is Concerned About Placenta Encapsulation. What Should I Do?
It is very common for providers to have questions or concerns regarding placenta encapsulation, especially if they are not specifically trained in placenta preparation or postpartum placenta use. Many medical professionals, nurses, and even some midwives may not be familiar with the contraindications, preparation methods, storage requirements, or different ways a placenta can be used after birth.
Because of this, I always strongly encourage families to still take their placenta home after delivery whenever possible, even if they are unsure about encapsulation at that moment. Your placenta is your body part, and in most uncomplicated situations, you have the right to request to keep it and decide later how you would like to use it.
Placenta encapsulation is only one option. Some families later choose:
- Placenta tinctures
- Burial ceremonies
- Keepsakes
- Delayed decisions after postpartum recovery
- Traditional postpartum practices
If your provider recommends sending part of the placenta to pathology or additional testing, this is often still compatible with placenta encapsulation. In many cases, only a small portion of the placenta is removed for testing and will not be returned. The remaining placenta can usually still be released back to you for personal use.
If you are ever unsure, I am always happy to answer questions, discuss contraindications, and help you make an informed decision based on your specific birth situation.
Disclaimer: Placenta encapsulation may not be appropriate in all situations. Certain maternal, fetal, or infectious conditions may prevent safe encapsulation. Final decisions regarding placenta release are subject to hospital, birth center, or provider policies. Clients are encouraged to discuss medical concerns directly with their licensed provider.
What Is a Placenta Tincture & Umbilical Cord Keepsake?
A placenta tincture is a long-term placenta preparation made by soaking a small portion of your placenta in high-proof alcohol over an extended period of time. Unlike placenta capsules, tinctures are designed for long-term storage and can last for many years when properly stored.
The tincture is typically prepared over a six-week period—about the same length of time most mothers use their placenta capsules. Once the six weeks is complete, your tincture is ready and can be used right away or saved for later.
Many mothers choose to keep their tincture as part of their postpartum wellness plan and may use small amounts during:
- Hormonal transitions
- Weaning from breastfeeding
- Return of menstrual cycles
- Emotional postpartum seasons
- Future life transitions, menopause, or stressful periods
- Occasional days when extra support is desired
Placenta tinctures are not intended to replace medical care and are considered a traditional postpartum preparation option.
Tincture Care & Storage:
- Store in a cool, dark location
- Keep bottle tightly sealed
- Shelf life can last many years when properly stored
- Typical use is a few drops at a time under the tongue or in water, if desired
An umbilical cord keepsake is a small, meaningful piece of your baby’s umbilical cord that is carefully cleaned, shaped, and dehydrated after the encapsulation process. It is most commonly formed into a heart shape and preserved as a sentimental reminder of the connection shared between mother and baby during pregnancy.
Please note:
- Each keepsake will naturally vary in shape and appearance
- Keepsakes are decorative only and not intended for use or consumption
- Final shape and design depend on the natural characteristics of the cord
Umbilical cord keepsakes are included as a complimentary addition to many placenta encapsulation services, offering a beautiful and lasting way to honor your birth experience.
Nationwide Placenta Encapsulation Shipping
Families outside of Orange County can still use this service through nationwide placenta shipping.
Placenta shipping kits allow you to safely package and send your placenta after birth.
Nationwide Shipping Process $500
- After birth, the placenta is stored on ice.
- The placenta is packaged according to the provided instructions.
- The placenta is shipped overnight.
- Once received, preparation begins immediately.
Capsules and keepsakes are then safely shipped back to you once preparation is complete.
Placenta Encapsulation Pricing
Local Placenta Encapsulation (Orange County): $350
Includes:
- placenta capsules
- placenta tincture
- umbilical cord keepsake
Nationwide Placenta Encapsulation: $500
Includes:
- placenta capsules
- placenta tincture
- umbilical cord keepsake
- return shipping
Placenta Encapsulation Service Area
Placenta encapsulation services are available all throughout Orange County, including but not limited to:
- Mission Viejo
- Irvine
- Laguna Hills
- San Clemente
- Dana Point
- Newport Beach
- Laguna Niguel
- Tustin
- Garden grove
- Santa Ana
- Long beach and surrounding communities.
Nationwide placenta encapsulation shipping is also available.