When expecting a new addition to the family, it can be hard to decide which cord blood bank to use. The decision to collect and save stem cells from your baby’s umbilical cord is an important one, and it is important to find the right cord blood bank that fits your needs. There are a few important questions to ask any potential cord blood bank, so you can make the best decision that is right for your family.

Before we discuss the questions to ask a potential cord blood bank, it is important to understand the terminology and processes associated with cord blood banking. Cord blood banking is the process of collecting and storing umbilical cord blood for future medical use. Umbilical cord blood contains stem cells, which can be used to treat certain blood and immunological diseases, as well as certain types of cancer.

The first question to ask any cord blood bank is about the type of storage method used. There are two types of cord blood banking: private and public. Private cord blood banking, also known as family cord blood banking, is where the blood is collected and stored for the family’s private use, while public cord blood banking involves the storage of cord blood in a public bank, where it is available for medical research and may be used by anyone who is a match.

The second question to ask is about the accreditation of the cord blood bank. Accreditation is important because it demonstrates that the bank meets the highest standards for safety and quality. The two main accreditation bodies in the United States are the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB) and the Foundation for the Accreditation of Cellular Therapy (FACT).

The third question to ask is about the collection process. It is important to make sure that the cord blood bank has a reliable and safe collection process. The collection should take place in a sterile environment and include a trained professional, such as a doctor or nurse, to ensure the safety of the baby and collection of the highest quality stem cells.

The fourth question to ask is about the testing process. It is important to make sure that the cord blood bank has a reliable and rigorous testing process. This includes testing for infectious diseases and genetic disorders, as well as testing for cell count, viability, and sterility.

The fifth question to ask is about the storage method. Most cord blood banks use cryopreservation, which is a process of freezing the cord blood to preserve it for future use. It is important to make sure that the cord blood bank is using a reliable and safe storage method that meets the highest standards for quality and stability.

The sixth and final question to ask is about the cost. It is important to make sure that the cost of the cord blood banking is reasonable and within your budget. Be sure to ask about any additional fees or charges, such as processing or storage fees, that may be associated with the cord blood banking process.

When deciding which cord blood bank to use, it is important to ask these essential questions to ensure that you are making the best decision for your family. Asking these questions will help to ensure that you are choosing a reliable and safe cord blood bank that meets the highest standards for quality and storage.

• What type of storage method is used?
• Is the cord blood bank accredited?
• What is the collection process?
• What is the testing process?
• What is the storage method?
• What is the cost?