Cord Blood Banking: Securing Your Family's Future Health

This article is contributed by our friends at Anja Health. At UpChoose, we're committed to empowering new parents with knowledge and practical solutions for making evidence-based choices centered on health and sustainability.

During pregnancy, one significant decision on your plate is whether to opt for cord blood banking. Surprisingly, not many upcoming parents are aware of this decision. This choice isn't only about having a genetic backup; it has significant effects on your family's future health.

Cord Blood Banking: A Valuable Reserve

Cord blood banking involves preserving the stem cells found in your baby's umbilical cord. These stem cells hold remarkable potential for future medical treatments. Think of it as an insurance policy for health that's simply invaluable. The umbilical cord is full of strong stem cells, known as hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). These cord blood stem cells are approved by the FDA to treat diseases like cancer, blood disorders, immune disorders, and certain metabolic conditions such as multiple sclerosis, leukemia, and sickle cell anemia.

Unlocking the Potential of Cord Tissue Banking

Beyond cord blood, the cord tissue harbors a different type of stem cell known as MSCs. These versatile cells could be pivotal in addressing various health issues, such as lung ailments, Alzheimer's disease, heart conditions, Autism, heart problems, hair loss, and more. These cells might prove very useful in case of accidents or physical health issues.

The Potential of Placenta Banking

Even the placenta itself is a hidden treasure trove of stem cells. These cells hold the promise of aiding in issues like preventing neurological degeneration. Picture it as securing a potential health booster for future challenges.

Photo credit: Anja Health

How can you bank your stem cells?

Cord blood banking can be done through either a private cord blood banking company or a public one. Opting for a private cord blood bank, like Anja Health, offers distinct advantages, including greater control over your stored cord blood, a secure match for your baby, 75% match for siblings and 50% for parents. There is also the assurance that these valuable stem cells will be readily available if needed in the future.
 
 Here's how the collection and storage process typically works with Anja Health:

What's the Process of Collection and Storage?

Right after your baby is born, the doctor or midwife clamps and cuts the umbilical cord. If you want to do delayed cord clamping - you can do it for up to 2 minutes which is more than enough for the baby to receive all the essential nutrients and blood flow needed for a healthy start in life!

They then collect cord blood from the cord and place it into a special bag. After giving birth, you simply call the number on our collection kit to inform our shipping team. They arrange for a medical courier to swiftly pick up the kit and transport it to a laboratory. At the lab, essential tests are conducted, and the cord blood stem cells are carefully preserved in a liquid nitrogen storage tank within the facility.

Photo credit: Anja Health

In essence, deciding to bank cord blood, cord tissue, or placenta is akin to planting seeds of health for your family's future. Now, with Anja Health it’s more affordable than ever! The Anja team is there to assist you in making this vital decision and ensuring that these invaluable resources are readily accessible when the need arises. Your family's health and well-being are worth the investment.

Take charge of your family's health with Anja Health. Use code UPCHOOSE for 10% off the kit and secure a healthier future today.