Cord blood is no longer something you should throw away. Rescu. investigates why keeping or donating it is one of your better options as a parent.
Becoming a parent is an exciting time, which in today’s medically advanced society presents you with a range of health and medical choices. While this can be a little overwhelming, there is one medical wonder that Rescu. thinks is well worth investigating, and it is found in blood from the little thought-of umbilical cord.
What is cord blood?
Cord Blood, taken from the umbilical cord immediately after birth, can literally be a lifesaver. It is rich in stem cells that offer an incredible medical resource to those faced with life threatening illnesses such as cancer. Up until very recently, cord blood was routinely discarded following the birth of a child. Since the discovery that cord blood is in fact rich in stem cells, the medical world has realised its value. Now that we understand the vital role of stem cells, cord blood has been recognised as an incredible medical resource—one worth preserving.
How you can bank cord blood
Private companies, such as Cryosite, offer new parents the options of ‘banking’ their child’s cord blood (essentially freezing it) in case they should need it later in life. The blood is taken from the umbilical cord that is attached to the placenta, after the placenta has been birthed. It is available for both natural births and caesareans. By banking your child’s cord blood, you have a guaranteed genetic match in case a serious illness should befall them. Banking is a fantastic option, and celebrity mums such as Catroina Rowntree and Shelley Craft have recently put their support behind this option, but it does come at a cost of several thousand dollars.
How to donate cord blood
For those who do not wish to, or simply cannot afford to privately store their child’s blood, there is a fantastic alternative—donating it. At selected hospitals in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, cord blood donation is supported by the Government, and free of charge. Best of all, your child’s birth can also mean the gift of life to another, less fortunate child.
Learning more
Whether you choose to ‘bank’ your own child’s blood in case of an emergency, or donate it for the benefit of whoever may need it, it is important to understand the amazing benefits that are contained in the umbilical cord. Be sure to talk to your obstetrician or midwife about the services available at your hospital or birthing centre.
If you are interested in a private banking visit: https://www.cryosite.com.au
