Is It Necessary to Embalm a Body? Top 5 Things to Consider

December 5, 2022

META DESCRIPTION: When you die, what happens to your body? Is it necessary to embalm a body? Here are 5 things Speaks Chapel funeral homes in Grain Valley, MO will tell you. 

When a loved one dies, you’ll want to make funeral arrangements as soon as possible. One of the decisions you will have to make is whether or not to embalm the body. Embalming is the process of preserving a corpse so that it does not decompose. 
It is often offered in funeral homes in Grain Valley, MO . But what should you consider before deciding if embalming is right for your loved one? 

1. What Does the Law Require? 


It is important to consider what the law requires before making any decisions. In some states, embalming is only required if the body will be transported out of state or if the deceased died of a contagious disease. 
However, in other states, embalming may be required regardless of these factors. As such, it is always best to consult with a licensed funeral director to ensure that you are complying with all applicable laws. 
Remember, the funeral home is required to follow the law and they will not be able to proceed with any funeral prearrangements until they have all of the necessary documentation. 

2. Your Budget 


Funeral costs can be expensive, and embalming is often an additional cost. If you are working with a tight budget, you may want to consider whether or not embalming is absolutely necessary. In some cases, it may be possible to have a closed casket funeral without embalming the body. 
However, if you decide to embalm the body, there are ways to save money. For example, you can ask the funeral home if they offer any discounts or if they have any package deals that include embalming. 
Many funeral homes offer payment plans so that you can spread out the cost of funeral services over time. 

3. Personal Beliefs 


If you have religious or cultural beliefs that prohibit the use of embalming fluids, then you will want to avoid having your loved one's body embalmed. 
Additionally, even if you do not have any personal objections to embalming, you may still want to consider whether or not it is something you are comfortable with. 
After all, embalming is a very invasive process, and some people may feel uneasy about having their loved one's body subjected to such treatment. 

4. Time Frame 


How much time do you have to make funeral arrangements? In some cases, it may be necessary to have the body embalmed immediately so that funeral services can be held as soon as possible. 
However, if you have more time to plan, you may want to wait to see if funeral services can be scheduled without having the body embalmed. Funeral homes will often allow you to have a viewing or funeral service within a few days of death without embalming. 

5. The Wishes of the Deceased 


If your loved one prefers not to be embalmed, you will obviously want to honor their wishes. 
Additionally, even if your loved one did not expressly state their wishes regarding embalming, you may still want to consider what they would have liked. For example, if your loved one is environmentally conscious, they may not want their body subjected to the chemicals used in embalming. 

Conclusion 


Deciding to embalm a body is personal, and there is no right or wrong answer. However, it is important to carefully consider all of the factors involved before making a decision. Doing so can ensure that you are making the best decision for your loved one and yourself. Whichever way you decide to go, funeral homes in Grain Valley, MO, will always provide the guidance you need either for immediate need or prearrange service . Contact our staff to further help you.

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