Where is the Placenta Discarded after Birth: Practices and Considerations

After a successful delivery, the placenta deserves careful and thoughtful disposal. The process and methods of placental disposal can vary significantly depending on where and how you give birth. This article explores the placenta disposal practices in both hospital and home settings, offering insights into the common procedures and the reasoning behind them.

Hospital Birth: Standard Practices and Considerations

In the United Kingdom, if you opt for a hospital delivery, your placenta generally undergoes a standard disposal process that prioritizes both maternal wishes and environmental responsibility. Typically, after the placenta is delivered and medically checked, it is placed in a heavy-duty plastic container, sealed, and then incinerated. This practice ensures hygiene and prevents the spread of potential pathogens. It's important to note, however, that the placenta is considered your property, and you can choose to take it home if you so desire. Upon taking the placenta home, the hospital can provide advice on proper disposal methods, which may include burial or composting.

Home Birth: Specific Procedures and Challenges

For those opting for a home birth, the placenta disposal process involves a few additional steps to ensure safe and hygienic removal. Immediately following the delivery, the placenta is typically double-bagged in heavy-duty plastic bags and secured with cable ties to prevent accidental slippage. It is then safely transported to the nearest hospital for disposal through incineration. Despite these precautions, it's not uncommon for some unexpected issues to arise.

For example, during one home birth, the midwife, despite being well-prepared and organized, ran out of bags and cable ties due to a busy day. An unscheduled and rushed exit ensued, leading to a close call during the transportation process. The placenta was initially placed in a single bag, which, upon being dropped during the journey, almost ungainly exploded its bloody contents up the wall of the hallway. The devastating mess caused by the unexpected spillage taught a valuable lesson about over-preparation and the need for a contingency plan.

Case Study: A Couple's Placenta Mishap

One noteworthy example occurred when a couple requested to take home their placenta after a hospital delivery. Initially, they planned to bury it in their garden, a common practice among many parents who wish to honor the unique bond formed between the placenta and their newborn. However, two days later, the couple approached the midwife, requesting assistance with the placenta disposal. This change of heart was not due to lack of motivation but, rather, a combination of exhaustion and the fear of potential wildlife disturbances such as foxes. Despite the couple's initial enthusiasm for the burial, the situation took a turn for the worse, highlighting the importance of emotional and physical well-being post-delivery.

In conclusion, the placenta's disposal after birth is a critical aspect of postpartum care. Whether in a hospital or a home, the process can be routine or challenging, requiring a balance of consideration, preparedness, and care.

Keywords: placenta disposal, home birth, hospital birth