The embalming process uses techniques that require a great deal of specialisation for it to be performed. In this article, Stelae explains what types of embalming exist and how the process is carried out in Spain.
What is embalming?
Embalming is a process that involves applying chemical substances to the body of a deceased person in order to slow down or temporarily stop their decomposition.
The aim of the procedure is to preserve the body in order to give the family and friends of the deceased the opportunity to hold a wake and say goodbye to their loved one. It is a delicate process that involves removing body fluids and replacing them with preservative solutions in order to present the deceased in the best possible condition.
The professionals who embalm a person after their death do so with diligence and respect, in as careful a manner as possible, and with consideration for the family's cultural and religious traditions.
What is the embalming process like in Spain?
Embalming in Spain has to comply with the highest quality standards. For this reason, it must only be carried out by qualified professionals in suitable facilities.
In our country it is not obligatory to embalm the body of a person when they die, with the exception of three cases:
- If the burial or cremation cannot be carried out within 72 hours of death.
- If the deceased person is to be displayed or a wake is to be held in a public place for a period of more than 48 hours.
- If the body is to be transferred or repatriated.
In these cases, for health reasons, legislation requires the embalming process to be carried out. In all other situations, it will be the family's decision.
It is important to be aware that when embalming is carried out for the transfer or repatriation of a body, Spanish legislation requires a series of documents to be presented in order to authorise the transfer to Spain. If your relative dies abroad you will need to provide:
- A transfer request
- A medical certificate stating the cause of death and the method of preserving the body (embalming)
- The medical certificate of embalming
- The official death certificate from the local registry office
- If an investigation into the cause of death has been opened, authorisation from the local judicial authority for the transfer
In such cases, it is very important that you understand about the embalming process and the legal considerations in our country.
Different types of embalming
There are two types of embalming: arterial and cavity. How does the embalming process work in each case?
Arterial embalming
Arterial embalming consists of replacing the blood with embalming fluids. These preservative solutions are used to temporarily stop or slow down the decomposition of the body.
The first step is to prepare the body. This involves cleaning and disinfecting to remove debris. In addition, the body is massaged to relieve any rigor mortis.
The blood is then removed through the veins and replaced with embalming fluids through the arteries. These preservative solutions are usually a mixture of formaldehyde, glutaraldehyde, methanol, ethanol, phenol and water.
Cavity embalming
Cavity embalming involves draining and filling the abdomen and thorax of the deceased.
As in arterial embalming, the body must first be prepared by cleaning, disinfecting and massaging to alleviate rigor mortis.
The next step in cavity embalming is to remove, through a small incision, the natural fluids found within the chest and abdomen.
These fluids are then replaced with an embalming solution after which the incision is closed.
In both arterial and cavity embalming, the embalming process is completed by restoring the natural appearance of the deceased person. This involves make-up and hairdressing techniques, as well as dressing and grooming the deceased person so that they look their best for the wake.
How long does the embalming process take?
Typically, families will be wondering how long the embalming process takes, as they will not be able to hold a wake and say goodbye to their loved one until this procedure is complete.
The length of the embalming process can vary depending on a number of factors, such as:
- The condition of the body.
- Family preferences.
- Environmental conditions (temperature and humidity influence the preservation of the body).
- The ability of the professional carrying out the embalming process.
- Whether or not repatriation or transfer arrangements need to be made.
Generally, it takes several hours to complete the procedure which includes cleaning and disinfection, injection of preservative fluids, and restoring the appearance of the deceased person to the most natural state possible.
