Current bone marrow registries involve keeping a computerized listing of volunteer donors. The average search time is three to four months and is extremely expensive. Cord blood that has been immunologically typed and frozen offers an opportunity as an alternate transplant source. By collecting umbilical cord blood from donors of different ethnic backgrounds, a larger number of patients will benefit. Stored umbilical cord blood units can easily be shipped and used at a time that is optimal for the patient.
Nothing is more important at the time of birth than the health of mother and child.
Because collection of the cord blood takes place after the baby has been delivered, there is no danger to either the mother or baby. After the baby is born, the umbilical cord is clamped, cut and separated from the baby. While waiting for the placenta to deliver, your physician or midwife will collect the cord blood by inserting a needle into the umbilical vein after cleansing the cord. The blood drains into a standard blood donor collection bag by gravity. The entire procedure is non-invasive, painless and does not interfere with the birthing process.