The placenta is your body’s temporary organ that encases your baby during pregnancy. This organ carries nutrients and oxygen from mother to baby, as well as removes waste from the baby. While the idea may be a foreign one to the United States and Salt Lake City residents, the practice of consuming the placenta, usually done as placenta encapsulation, is a centuries-old custom.

Not all home birthing practices follow the same model, but virtually all of them have a continuous care approach. The midwife and doula you’re introduced to at the beginning of the process are there all the way to the end, and you’ll have tons of time to ask questions and get to know their services. You’ll get individualized, respectful care that’s catered to your needs.

There are many ways in which natural childbirth can be safer for your baby. Babies delivered naturally receive increased energy from stable levels of blood sugar. They receive an increased amount of oxygen from natural hormones. Finally, studies have shown that they develop stronger immune systems.