Understanding Its Advantages and Storage Options
When preparing for the arrival of a new baby, there are countless decisions to make regarding their health and well-being. One crucial choice that prospective parents should consider is whether to bank the baby’s cord blood. This blog delves into the advantages of cord blood banking, how the storage process works, the potential uses, and the feasibility of arranging this service in Georgia.
What is Cord Blood Banking?
Cord blood banking involves collecting and storing the blood from the umbilical cord and placenta after a baby is born. This blood contains a high concentration of stem cells, which can be utilized in medical treatments for various conditions. The process is straightforward and typically occurs immediately after delivery, when the cord is clamped and cut.
Advantages of Cord Blood Banking
- Stem Cell Richness: Cord blood is a valuable source of hematopoietic stem cells, which can develop into different types of blood cells — essential for treating blood disorders like leukemia and certain genetic conditions.
- Potential for Treatment: Cord blood has been used in over 80 diseases, including various cancers, immune system disorders, and metabolic disorders. Stem cell transplants can help regenerate healthy blood cells in patients undergoing treatments like chemotherapy.
- Lower Risk of Rejection: Because cord blood stem cells are collected from the newborn, there is typically a lower risk of rejection compared to stem cells from other sources, such as bone marrow. This matches the stem cells to the baby or their siblings, increasing the chances of a successful transplant.
- Future Research Opportunities: As medical research continues to advance, the potential uses of cord blood and stem cells are expanding. Banking cord blood ensures that you are making a proactive choice that may benefit your child or family members in the future.
How Does Cord Blood Storage Work?
- Collection: After birth, once the umbilical cord is clamped and cut, a healthcare professional will collect the blood remaining in the cord and placenta using a sterile collection kit.
- Testing: The collected cord blood is sent to a processing facility, where it undergoes testing for any infectious diseases, ensuring it is safe for future use.
- Processing: After testing, the cord blood is processed to isolate the stem cells, which are then cryopreserved in specialized bags to protect their viability.
- Storage: The cord blood is stored in a secure facility at extremely low temperatures, typically in liquid nitrogen. This method preserves the stem cells for potentially many years, keeping them viable for future medical use.
What is The Real Use: Should You Keep It?
The decision to bank cord blood should be made after careful consideration of its potential benefits and uses. Here are some factors to consider:
- Family History: If there is a family history of blood disorders or genetic conditions, cord blood banking may provide a beneficial safeguard.
- Health Considerations: If you are concerned about the possibility of future medical needs — either for your child or family members — cord blood banking may offer peace of mind.
- Cost vs. Benefit: While banking cord blood involves costs for collection, processing, and storage, many parents weigh these expenses against the potential long-term health benefits it may provide.
Arranging Cord Blood Banking in Georgia
If you decide to bank your baby’s cord blood, it is essential to arrange this service in advance. In Georgia, several facilities offer cord blood banking, though it is recommended to contact them ahead of time to understand their processes, costs, and requirements.
Seek Support from Our Program Managers: If you decide to pursue cord blood storage, our program managers are here to assist you. They can provide information about which cord blood banks are commonly used, guide you through the registration process, and help ensure you are fully prepared before the arrival of your baby. Our team will also familiarize you with the associated expenses and terms involved, as well as support you in signing the necessary agreements with the chosen bank.
