Parents’ knowledge about the practice of placentophagy: a qualitative study

Objective To describe Brazilian fathers’ knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes regarding the practice of human placentophagy during the pregnancy–puerperal cycle. Design Qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive study grounded in social research in health, focusing on the meanings and perceptions attributed by fathers to placentophagy. Setting The study was conducted in Brazil with nationwide participation, including respondents from the five macro-regions (North, Northeast, Central-West, Southeast, and South). Data collection was performed virtually using an online questionnaire. Population or Sample The sample consisted of 11 adult cisgender fathers aged between 22 and 63 years who had experienced fatherhood and had some level of involvement in pregnancy, childbirth, or the postpartum period. Participants were recruited through convenience and snowball sampling strategies. Methods Data were collected using a structured and semi-structured questionnaire administered through Google Forms®. The instrument included sociodemographic questions, items about participation in the pregnancy–puerperal cycle, and open-ended questions exploring knowledge and perceptions about placentophagy. Qualitative data were analyzed using thematic content analysis according to Minayo, complemented by narrative analysis based on Riessman to explore meanings and discursive constructions. Main Outcome Measures Primary outcomes included fathers’ level of knowledge about placentophagy, perceptions of potential benefits and risks, attitudes toward supporting the practice, and interpretations of the male role in decision-making related to postpartum practices. Results Most participants had heard about placentophagy but demonstrated limited knowledge regarding its potential benefits and risks. Uncertainty was predominant, with many fathers reporting the need for further information before forming an opinion. Responses regarding support for the practice varied, ranging from support and neutrality to discouragement. Participants emphasized women’s bodily autonomy while also recognizing the importance of dialogue and shared decision-making within the couple. Cultural, symbolic, and emotional interpretations of the placenta were also identified. Conclusions Fathers’ knowledge about placentophagy remains limited and influenced by fragmented information and sociocultural interpretations. Strengthening educational strategies that include fathers in discussions about perinatal practices may support more informed decision-making and encourage greater paternal involvement in reproductive and postpartum health.