Cord blood is the blood that is obtained from the umbilical cord after your baby has been delivered and the cord has been cut. It is the source of stem cells that can be used for many lifesaving medical treatments. There may also be a use for the stem cells in the treatment of brain injury and diabetes.
What are you going to do with your cord blood?
Cord blood banking is saving the cord blood obtained at delivery. You or your family members may have a future use for this cord blood. If you wish to have cord blood saved, there is a kit that is used to send the blood to the cord blood bank. You can also choose to donate your cord blood for use by another person.
Go to http://www.cordblood.com to learn more about cord blood banking. Then ask Dr Austin or Dr Folkestad about the cord blood banking kit at your next appointment.