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It is possible for an unembalmed body to be viewed, but there are some important considerations. Generally, embalming is recommended if there will be a viewing, especially if the viewing will take place more than a day or two after death. However, with proper refrigeration an unembalmed body can often be safely viewed within the first 24-48 hours after death. The condition of the body and the circumstances of death will also factor into whether a viewing is possible without embalming. Ultimately it is up to the family to decide if they wish to view the unembalmed body, in consultation with the funeral director. Some key factors are the expected time between death and viewing, whether the body will be refrigerated, and the ability to have a closed casket if needed.
What is embalming?
Embalming is the process of temporarily preserving a deceased person’s body from decomposition. It involves replacing the blood with specialized fluids to slow down natural decay. Some of the key steps in embalming include:
- Washing the body with disinfectants
- Closing the eyes and mouth
- Removing blood and gases from the body
- Injecting embalming fluids into the arteries
- Treating the organs and cavity areas with embalming powders and chemicals
- Positioning the body for viewing
The embalming fluids contain formaldehyde, methanol, and other chemicals that preserve tissues and kill bacteria. This process can temporarily maintain a lifelike appearance for 2 weeks or longer.
Why is embalming done?
There are several reasons why embalming is commonly performed:
- Allows mourners to view the body and say goodbye
- Maintains a natural and dignified appearance
- Slows the decomposition process
- Allows time for funeral services and transportation of remains
- Reduces potential public health risks
Without embalming, decomposition and odors will advance rapidly. Embalming sanitizes the body and creates a more pleasant, peaceful viewing experience.
Can an unembalmed body be viewed?
It is possible to have a viewing without embalming the body, but there are important factors to consider:
- An unembalmed body can only be safely viewed for 24-48 hours after death when kept under refrigeration. After 48 hours, decomposition advances quickly.
- The condition of the body at the time of death will impact how suitable it is for viewing without embalming. Traumatic injuries, health issues, or autopsy procedures may make embalming advised.
- There may be odor and skin discoloration, which can be distressing without embalming.
- The funeral director can help determine if viewing an unembalmed body is an option based on the circumstances.
- Having a closed casket option available is recommended if viewing without embalming.
Here is a quick overview of viewing an unembalmed body:
Viewing an Unembalmed Body
| Timeframe | Condition of Body | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Within 24 hours of death | May look close to normal with some discoloration | Minimal odor possible |
| 24-48 hours after death | Increasing discoloration and dehydration | Some odor likely |
| After 48 hours | Decomposition will be advancing noticeably | Odor will be strongly present |
As this table shows, the timeframe after death is a key factor when considering viewing without embalming. Within 24 hours, it may be possible with minimal signs of decomposition. But after 48 hours, the natural decay process has accelerated too far.
Should an unembalmed body be viewed?
Whether to view an unembalmed body is a personal decision that depends on several factors:
- Cultural or religious beliefs – Some faiths prefer viewing the body soon after death without embalming when possible.
- Time since death – Viewing within 24 hours allows seeing the body before decomposition sets in.
- Expectations for the viewing – If there is a need to see the unaltered body, embalming may be declined.
- Condition of the body – Trauma or autopsy procedures may make embalming more advisable.
- Ability to refrigerate – Refrigeration can preserve an unembalmed body for a short viewing.
- Closed casket option – Having this available even for a brief open casket can allow stopping if needed.
The funeral director can provide guidance on these factors when deciding whether to view without embalming. It is helpful to discuss expectations openly with them to make an informed choice.
Here are some pros and cons to consider when viewing an unembalmed body:
Pros and Cons of Viewing Without Embalming
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
These pros and cons highlight key considerations around opting to view without embalming. The most important factors are usually the appearance of the body and limited timeframe. Discussing expectations openly will allow making the most informed choice.
What to expect when viewing an unembalmed body
If you choose to view an unembalmed body, here is what you can expect:
- Cool temperature – The body must be refrigerated, so the viewing room will be cold.
- Short timeframe – Most viewings would be limited to 30 minutes or less without embalming.
- Limited physical contact – Touching or kissing the body is not advised due to potential health risks.
- Closed casket option – This should be available in case the condition makes an open casket inappropriate.
- Physical changes – There may be some discoloration, dehydration, and odor present depending on when death occurred.
- Potentially unexpected appearance – Features may be distorted without embalming and restoration.
Being prepared for these conditions allows making the most of the viewing opportunity. Saying goodbye is still possible but the experience is different. Talk to your funeral director so you know what to expect ahead of time.
How to prepare for viewing without embalming
If you decide to view the body without embalming, here are some tips:
- Discuss expectations openly with your funeral director so you are prepared.
- View in the first 24 hours if possible when the body will look closer to normal.
- Limit the viewing to 30 minutes or less as decay will advance quickly.
- Bring warm clothing as the room will be chilled from refrigeration.
- Mentally prepare for some unpleasant odors and appearance changes.
- Have a closed casket option available in case the condition makes an open viewing inappropriate.
- Limit physical contact for health reasons and use hand sanitizer after.
- Focus on saying goodbye instead of expecting the body to look sleeping.
Proper mental preparation and understanding of what to expect can help in viewing an unembalmed loved one. While challenging, it can provide closure.
Conclusion
Viewing an unembalmed body is possible but presents challenges. With proper refrigeration, a viewing within 24 hours of death may allow seeing the body before decomposition is too advanced. However, there will likely be some unpleasant odors and visual signs of decay present that embalming helps minimize. Setting expectations, limiting contact, having a closed casket option, and focusing on saying goodbye can provide closure. Consulting your funeral director and considering cultural and religious beliefs can help decide if viewing without embalming is appropriate. While difficult, it may offer a chance for a natural goodbye that some families value.