Knowledge and representations of the placenta in a French population of women post-partum

In many cultures, the placenta is considered to be the twin brother, counselor or guardian angel of the baby throughout pregnancy and is the subject of many beliefs and practices. In France, it is better known from a biomedical point of view including the protocols related to its disposal as biomedical waste in the hospital environment. Our study aims to evaluate the knowledge and representations of the placenta before being discarded by health personnel who assisted the parturient at birth. Our results show a lack of knowledge and misconceptions about the placenta and its different functions. Nevertheless, mothers consider it essential to their childrens development and are ready to give it to science "if it can help" once the birth is complete. Information and documentation on the placenta among pregnant women are necessary for better management of childbirth and practices, especially for mothers who wish to give birth at home or in a delivery center.