Cord blood banking involves saving the child’s cord blood stem cells for future purposes.

Cord blood is a rich source of stem cells. In addition, the umbilical cord itself is a rich source of stem cells. Cord blood stem cells are a good alternative to bone marrow stem cells, especially when used for treating children. The main advantage of cord blood stem cells is the ease of collection. It is a simple procedure to collect blood from the umbilical cord after childbirth. It is safe for the child as well as for the mother.

Unfortunately, the cord blood banking has become quite commercial and many couples are rushed into saving their child’s cord blood without adequate counselling. It is crucial to understand how cord blood stem cells can be useful. Merely saving cells is not enough. A clear understanding of the advantages and limitations of saving cord blood stem cells is essential.

Saving your child’s cord blood is a serious matter. One cannot rely on glossy advertisements and celebrity endorsements to decide on the cell banking provider. What you do now may have major implications several years later. Therefore it is best to get advice from professionals.