Just like learning infant CPR and how to use your baby's car seat, Cord blood banking needs to be taken care of before you deliver your baby.
Every day we work with savvy, motivated parents who understand the importance of 'planning' to ensure their baby's safety. Have you thought about what to do with your baby's cord blood? Your baby's cord blood contains precious stem cells that have the potential to treat or cure life-threatening illnesses. However, the cord blood is routinely discarded after delivery, as part of medical waste, unless you tell your health care team otherwise.
Expectant parents have the option to privately store their baby's cord blood or donate it to the public system. When you donate, you give up the ownership rights to the cord blood, allowing it be used for the general public through the National Marrow Donor Program. If you are having a hospital delivery at one of the 37 LifeSource participating hospitals, there is a streamlined process in place for donation through this system. There is a critical shortage of cord blood within the public system, especially for minority populations. Donation is free of charge, but you must call 6-8 weeks before delivery to register. To learn more, visit LifeSource. Click for more..
Private banking reserves the cord blood for your family only - you retain ownership of the cord blood. Be sure you are up-to-date regarding the potential benefits of private banking. This is a rapidly changing science. There is a lot of outdated information out there that keeps re-ciruclating. Key points include the following:
- Today, more than 8000 patients have been treated with umbilical cord blood
- There is a 1 in 333 chance of developing a disease treatable by cord blood by age 21 (American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology)
- These cells are not just for the child; there is a 75% chance of a suitable match for siblings. Cord blood stem cells have also been successfully used in adults. Read one man's story..
- There is twice the chance of transplant success with cells from your own family than a non-family member
If you are considering privately banking your baby's cord blood, we encourage you to use a company that is certified by the AABB, uses an FDA approved collection system, has a high volume of successful transplants, supports and conducts cord blood stem cell research, and has a record of business longevity and financial stability. Viacord is one such company. Call or visit them on-line to receive your free 16 page parent guide. In most cases, a collection kit can be sent to you within 1-2 days.
Safety Squad understands that this is a personal decision for our families. We respect everyone's right to make the decision that feels correct for their family. Most importantly, we place a high value on education. Everyone has the right to know all their options and make an informed decision.
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