This is the fourth article in a series dedicated to learning about umbilical cord blood stem cell storage. It aims to educate expectant parents by providing them a comprehensive guide to cord blood banking that will help them make an informed decision.
In this post, we will take a close look at the sample collection process and answer some of the most frequently asked questions.
Sample collection is the process of obtaining the blood from the umbilical cord, once it is cut away from the newborn baby. Here are the some of the most common questions regarding the cord blood collection process.
How does caesarean section affect the cord blood collection process?
There is no difference in the cord blood collection process if you choose to have a caesarean section. After the baby is delivered, the blood from the umbilical cord is collected in exactly the same way as a normal birth. You can also save the cord blood even if you choose to delay the clamping of the cord.
How is the umbilical cord blood collected?
Shortly after your child has been delivered, the umbilical cord is put to one side and cleaned by a doctor or a midwife. The cord blood collection process does not reduce the level of care that a mother and baby receive from doctors and nurses after delivery. This process is 100% painless and safe for both the mother and child.
After birth, the midwife or obstetrician will clean the umbilical cord then use a needle to extract blood from the umbilical vein. The blood is collected in a bag and prepared for delivery. If you are storing umbilical cord tissue as well, it will also be carefully collected and prepared for transit to the laboratory. The entire process is very quick and will be done within 20 minutes.
Is there any risk to my baby or me?
There is absolutely no risk to mother or child if you choose to preserve your child’s umbilical cord blood. The procedure takes place after the delivery has been safely completed with both mother and child doing well. If there are complications with the birth, medical professionals will put the umbilical cord aside and focus on the mother and child.
When is the cord blood collected?
The cord blood will be collected shortly after the cord has been cut and clamped by your midwife or obstetrician. Once your obstetrician and/or midwife are happy that both the child and mother are doing well, they will process the umbilical cord. The entire collection process is usually complete within 30 minutes of the child being born. It must be done rapidly before the blood in the umbilical cord can begin to clot.
Why is the maternal sample needed and what testing is performed?
A maternal blood sample is taken to determine if there are any diseases present which can make the umbilical blood hazardous and unsuitable for use in a transplant. Diseases which can make the cord blood unusable include: HIV, Syphilis, Human T cell Lymphotrophic Virus and Hepatitis. All umbilical cord blood storage companies are compelled by law to test the maternal sample before storing the umbilical cord blood.
Will either my baby or I feel any discomfort during the collection?
When the blood is collected from the umbilical cord, neither you nor your baby are attached to it. There will be no pain or discomfort.
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