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The umbilical cord, which contains high stem cell counts, is the main source for these treasured cells. The cord blood is extracted from the umbilical cord soon after birth. Chances are you’ve already heard many people talking about stem cell transplant and why you need to bank them. Do you really need it? And if you do, what else do you need to think about before deciding on a bank? Not only will you get details on cord stem cell banking, but all the info you’ll need to consider before choosing a bank.

The pros for stem cells first

· It’s simple really. By banking your stem cells, you are actually providing yourself with better alternatives in the future to fight against diseases or health conditions. Stem cells can provide your children with healthy cells to help treat against life threatening diseases. Stem cell transplants can help cure hard to treat diseases such as leukemia and spinal cord injuries.

· Cord stem cell banking does not involve any injury or pain to the mother or the child. The cells required is taken from the umbilical cord after the birth, therefore there is absoluteny no pain or risk for your baby.

· Cord stem cell banking is very helpful when you need transplants for the parents or for a sibling also. Patients have to face high risks when undergoing bone marrow transplant. This is due to the possible rejection of the transplant by the host body. The chances of a stem cell rejection are remote. It can be used in the treatment of diseases like leukemia, brain tumors, cell disorders and congenital disturbances of the immune system.

And now the cons

· Of course, if there are no cases of genetically transmitted diseases in your family, you will not stand to gain a lot from cord stem cell banking.

· It doesn’t come cheap. You should be prepared to fork out at least 00 up front, with a 0 yearly maintenance cost. If you do not really run a risk of a genetic disease, these are costs you need not bear!

How do I choose a Cord stem cell banking facility?

It’s very simple. Once you have decided on banking the stem cells, ask yourself these questions:

· Would you like to go for public banking or a private facility?

· Is the bank stable?

· Consider the number of processed samples at the facility- larger sample handling means that there are more hands involved in the procedure and better infrastructure.

· Can you choose a different facility later?

· What are the costs involved? What is the amount you will have to pay up front and also the maintainence cost? Are those affordable?

· How will these costs affect your savings in the long run? Whether these costs are fixed or subject to change?

· Will you need to compromise on anything in order to ensure cord stem cell banking?

Cord stem cell banking is an important, albeit tough decision to make. Consider all the factors before you decide on what is right for you.