During pregnancy, many parents are approached by cord blood banks with promises like “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” or “biological insurance for your child.” This often creates confusion and pressure.
Let’s break it down simply and honestly.
Cord blood is the blood left in the umbilical cord and placenta after delivery. It is rich in stem cells, which can be used to treat certain blood and immune disorders.
After birth, this blood can either be:
Cord blood stem cells are mainly used for:
👉 These conditions are rare — and usually require donor stem cells, not the child’s own stored sample.
Cord blood is collected immediately after birth once the cord is clamped and cut. A trained professional collects the remaining blood from the cord and placenta. The process is quick and painless.
Yes. It is completely safe for both mother and baby because it is done after delivery and cord separation.
It can be stored safely for 20–25 years or more if frozen properly. Long-term real-world usage data is still evolving.
Cord blood stem cells:
Advance planning helps smooth coordination.
Note: Many claims are still research-based, not guaranteed treatments.
In India, costs usually include:
Most insurance plans do NOT cover this.
The best time is during the second trimester — allowing time to understand options calmly.
Usually NO.
If the child develops a genetic or blood disorder — the stored cord blood has the same defect.
This is why many medical bodies do not routinely recommend private cord blood banking.
Public banks:
However — availability in India is still limited.
It may be considered when:
In such cases, stored cord blood may help another family member.
📍 Source: Dr. Shweta Mehta — DNB Obstetrics & Gynaecology | United Multispeciality Hospital, Kandivali West, Mumbai