A Guide to Sacred Placental Birth
Photo by Illuminate with Nikola
Have you thought about what you'll do with your placenta? How you'll sever it? IF you'll sever it? Who knew once baby was born there would still be so much to consider!
Bringing new life into the world is a journey filled with profound moments and decisions, and one of the most sacred aspects of this journey is the care of the placenta. Beyond it’s physiological role, the placenta holds immense spiritual significance for many families, especially those choosing the path of homebirth. In this blog post, we'll explore the holistic approach to birthing and caring for the placenta, touching on both the practical and spiritual aspects of this ancient practice.
Creating a Sacred Space: Just as you may have carefully curated your birthing environment for your baby, it's equally important to maintain a serene and nurturing space for the emergence of your placenta. In this dimly lit room filled with hormones, you can facilitate the gentle transition from womb to world for both you and your baby. Harnessing the power of gravity, changing positions, and engaging in nurturing activities such as breastfeeding (which increases oxytocin) can encourage the placenta to detach and emerge naturally, in harmony with the rhythm of birth.
The Wisdom of Delayed Cord Clamping: In recent years, there has been a resurgence of delayed cord clamping, a practice that allows for the uninterrupted flow of blood from the placenta to your baby. Contrary to outdated beliefs, immediate clamping and cutting of the cord have been shown to deprive your baby of essential nutrients and oxygen. Optimal cord clamping involves waiting until the cord is white and has ceased pulsating, ensuring that your baby receives all the blood from the placenta. This simple yet profound act has been associated with numerous benefits, including increased iron reserves, improved cardiovascular transition, enhanced immunity, and better neurodevelopment outcomes.
Honoring the Moment of Separation: The moment of separation between baby and placenta is a deeply symbolic one, deserving of reverence and mindfulness. While the standard medical plastic clamp offers convenience, alternative methods such as cord ties and ceremonial burning of the cord can instill this moment with beauty and meaning. And then there's the practice of Lotus Birth, where the cord remains uncut, allowing the placenta to stay attached to your baby until it naturally separates, usually within a week. Far from being a mere physical process, Lotus Birth is a profound spiritual journey that honors the interconnectedness of all life and the innate wisdom of the newborn.
Embracing the Spiritual Significance: Beyond the practical considerations, caring for your placenta can hold deep spiritual significance. Whether you choose to ingest it, plant it under a tree, or simply honour its role in sustaining life, the placenta embodies the sacredness of childbirth and the interconnectedness of all living beings. By approaching this process with mindfulness, reverence, and respect, you can create a truly transformative experience that honors the miracle of life in its entirety.
The journey of birthing and caring for your placenta is not just a physical process but a deeply spiritual one. By embracing the holistic approach outlined in this blog post, you can embark on a journey of profound self-discovery, connection, and empowerment. So, as you prepare to welcome your little one into the world, take a moment to honor the wisdom of your body, the sanctity of birth, and the sacredness of the placenta.
Got any questions? I'd love to chat about it! Drop your questions below or flick me an email to chat.
