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. Whether or not 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 stem cells pros first
· It’s simple really. You are providing yourself with better treatment alternatives by storing your stem cells. Stem cells can provide your children with healthy cells to help treat against life threatening diseases. Stem cells can even treat diseases like leukemia.
· Cord stem cell banking does not involve any injury or pain to the mother or the child. Since the cells are sourced at the umbilical cord that is thrown away after the birth, there is no pain involved.
· Cord stem cell banking is very helpful when you need transplants for the parents or for a sibling also. Patients who requires bone marrow transplant faces plenty of risks. There is a chance that the body may reject the transplant. 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. Expect to pay at least $2000 at first and then around a $100 a year for maintenance. 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 easy. 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? Are the costs going to be the same or will they change over time?
· Will you need to compromise on anything in order to ensure cord stem cell banking?
Cord stem cell banking is not an easy decision to take-but it is an important one. Consider all the factors before you decide on what is right for you.