Cord Blood Banking FAQs

How Does C-Section Affect the Cord Blood Collection Process?

C-section collections are drawn directly from the cord, or your doctor can deliver the placenta into a sterile tray and then draw from the fetal side of the placenta. Studies comparing vaginal vs. cesarean delivery show that the collection volumes are comparable.

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Does The Hospital Need To Provide Any Materials for Collection?

No. Usually, you will receive a collection kit for your baby's cord blood stem cells. Your kit contains all the items your caregiver will need to collect your baby's cord blood. However, you must remember to take the kit with you to the hospital when you deliver.

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Is There Any Risk to My Child or Myself During Collection?

No. The cord blood is collected after your baby has been born and the umbilical cord has been clamped and cut. The cord blood that is being collected is blood that would routinely be thrown away. The collection is painless, easy, and safe for mother and baby. Your caregiver will not alter their normal birthing process in any way, except to collect your baby's cord blood. The average time for cord blood collection is about 5 minutes.

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Is The Amount Collected Important?

Yes. Larger stem cell samples have shown better survival rate in transplant.

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How Is Cord Blood Collected?

Cord blood collection banks usually offer a choice of either the syringe or blood bag collection methods.

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When Is The Cord Blood Collected?

Cord blood is collected from the umbilical cord immediately after the birth of the baby and after the cord has been cut. This blood is routinely discarded and collecting it does not alter normal birthing procedures. The collection can only take place at the time of delivery and is normally performed by your caregiver.

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How Long Has The Process Of Cord Blood Collection Existed?

The first cord blood transplant was performed in 1988. Since then, more than 4,000 transplants have occurred.

The opportunity for expectant families to collect and store their newborn's umbilical cord blood stem cells has only been widely available since late 1995. Currently, thousands of parents are taking advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

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