Cord Blood Banking FAQ
Does does cord blood banking help my baby?
Your baby's umbilical cord contains stem cells. Cord blood stem cells can treat a number of diseases such as leukemia or sickle cell anemia. Storing cord blood in a registered facility can help your child or their sibling or family relative in the future should a medical need arise.
How much does cord blood banking cost?
Generally, cord blood banking costs around $1,600 for inital collection, testing, processing and registry. Annual storage fees are about $125 per year.
How is my baby's cord blood stored for later use?
Umbililical cord blood is stored in a cryogenic freezer at an accredited public cord blood "bank", ready for use as soon as it is needed.
Can other people use my baby's cord blood?
Yes, once you donate cord blood, it gets stored in a national cord blood "bank" or registry. Anyone who needs the cord blood can request to use it for medical purposes. If your family should need it before another patient needs it, you have first access to your baby's cord blood.
Who are the leading cord blood banks?
The three main cord blood banks are Cryo-Cell International, Cord Blood Registry, and Viacord.
What's the difference between cord blood and embryonic stem cells?
Cord blood stem cells are obtained from a baby's umbilical cord right after birth. Embryonic stem cells are obtained from fertilized eggs that are in the early stages of embryo development.
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