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The embalming process involves washing the body, massaging the muscles, setting the face, draining the blood, pumping embalming fluid, and removing stomach contents. The body is then dressed, hair and makeup done, and placed in a coffin for viewing.
The embalming process prepares a body for funeral and eventual burial. It is performed by a funeral director and is intended to prevent the spread of disease and to preserve the body until after the funeral. The process begins when the body is taken to the funeral home. Any clothing is removed and the body is placed on a slab with drainage grooves.
The first step in the embalming process is to wash off any waste, bodily fluids, or other materials from the body. Then the muscles are massaged to eliminate stiffness, called rigor mortis, that can make body movement difficult. This also helps break up any clots or clots in the blood that may have formed after death.
The next step in the embalming process is to set the face. An eyepiece is placed over the eyes, to hide the sinking, and the eyelids are closed and sealed, usually with glue or other adhesive substance. The mouth is sealed in a natural look and the body is arranged in a natural position. This is all done first because embalming will set the characteristics, making them impossible to move later. Some undertakers will turn their heads 15 degrees to the right, so that it is easier to see during the performance.
Once the face is ready, the undertaker begins embalming the body. He makes a cut in a major artery, usually near the armpit or groin, to drain all the blood. Another slit is made, and about three gallons of embalming fluid, composed of formaldehyde, methanol, and ethanol, are pumped through the veins, forcing any remaining blood out.
The embalming process continues with a small cut above the navel. The undertaker inserts a tube through the cut into the abdomen. A pump is attached to the tube and the contents of the stomach and intestines are pumped out. This also removes all gas from the body, preventing bloating. During this part of the embalming process, the undertaker also vacuums the abdominal cavity and the insides of any organs, drying them. The full-strength embalming fluid is then pumped into the organs and abdomen.
After the body is stitched up, the undertaker washes it off, also washing the hair. Facial hair that may get in the way of applying makeup is shaved off and then the body is dressed in clothing delivered by a family member. After that, hair and makeup are done, at which point the body is placed in the coffin for family and friends to view during calling hours.
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