The umbilical cord and placenta were your baby's source of nourishment during pregnancy. After birth, the blood in the cord and placenta are typically discarded. It is possible to collect and store this blood in a cord bank for later use by a stranger or someone in your family.
Uses
Umbilical cord blood contains the same types of stem cells as found in a bone marrow transplant. These cells are capable of developing into blood cells that can build up tissues, organs and systems in the body. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, the body is less likely to reject stem cells from umbilical cord blood than it is to reject bone marrow. A cord blood transplant can be used for a disease requiring a stem cell transplant.
Private Use
You may choose to put your baby's cord blood in a private bank if you have a family member with a current or potential need for a stem cell transplant. There are several conditions that benefit from a stem cell transplant, including leukemia, aplastic anemia, malignancies, hemoglobinopathies, immunodeficiencies or bone marrow failure. Private cord blood banks include fees for storing and processing and the use of a courier service. The American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend banking cord blood for personal use if your family does not have a history of a disease that could benefit.
Public Donation
Nonprofit, public cord banks allow you to donate your baby's cord blood so that it can be used by someone who needs a transplant. These banks are anonymous and free, and you do not have the option to retrieve your sample later. Because there is no risk or cost, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends banking your baby's cord blood in a public bank if there is no medical need for it in your family.
Collection
Cord blood collection is done within the 15 minutes following a vaginal or cesarean birth. It is a painless procedure. After the placenta is delivered and the umbilical cord is clamped, a small tube is inserted into the cord that collects the blood. The blood is then placed in bags or syringes and taken to the cord blood bank, usually by a courier. At the bank, the stem cells are separated from the rest of the blood and are stored.
Recommendations
Cord blood banks are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Before choosing one, look for one that is accredited by the American Association of Blood Banks. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends discussing your options with your doctor before making a decision.
