Study questions benefits of placenta eating by new mothers

After reviewing dozens of studies from across the globe on so-called placentophagy, or placenta consumption, the researchers say they’re advising obstetricians to discourage their patients from eating the placenta in any form.

“As obstetricians, it’s important to tell the truth. And the truth is it’s potentially harmful and no evidence it’s beneficial, so therefore, don’t do it,” said study author Dr. Amos Grunebaum. He’s an obstetrician/gynecologist at New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center in New York City.