More parents are opting to save the cord blood after their baby is born. Cord blood is filled with hematopoietic stem cells. These stem cells normally develop into platelets, red blood cells or white blood cells. It is important to note that cord blood cells are not the same as the embryonic stem cells, and cord blood collection does not harm baby or mother. Keep in mind that cord blood is usually not collected if a woman is having more than one baby.
Cord blood donation is a simple procedure that can be completed in just three to seven minutes. The cord blood is collected immediately after the baby has been born. The person who is collecting the cord blood will drain it into the bag. The blood will then be processed and frozen at a very low temperature. Storing the cord blood helps protect it from environmental factors.
Expectant parents who are interested in donating their baby’s cord blood will have to plan ahead of time. A mother must test negative for HIV and all other infectious diseases before she is allowed to donate cord blood.
There are a number of benefits that can be reaped from cord blood banking. Below are some of the reasons you may want to consider cord blood banking.
Can Potentially Be Life-Saving
Cord blood can potentially help save many lives. The stem cells from cord blood can be used to treat a variety of conditions including sickle cell anemia, leukemia and lymphoma. The stem cells can be injected into the body and replenish the person’s blood supply with healthy cells. Cord blood can also be used to help a person recover from certain cancer treatments, such as radiation and chemotherapy.
The first successful cord blood transplant was in 1988. The baby girl’s cord blood was given to her brother. He was suffering from Fanconi anemia, which is a type of genetic disorder.
Less Complications
Adult stem cells can be used in transplants. However, newborn cord blood stem cells are a much better choice. Because newborn stem cells are younger, a person who gets them is much less likely to experience complications. Furthermore, newborn cord blood stem cells is much more likely to be accepted by the recipient’s body.
Immediately Available
Cord blood stem cells are immediately available. If they are used during the early stages of a disease, then they can potentially prevent it from progressing.
At South Lake OB/GYN, we offer a variety of services that are centered on women’s health including gynecology, obstetrics, medical spa treatments, infertility, prenatal education and female incontinence – among others. If you’re interested in cord blood donation, contact South Lake OB/GYN and Advanced Surgery today. Our medical team is available to assist you in any way possible.