How is cord blood collected?
If you choose to keep your baby’s cord blood, your healthcare professional will collect it immediately after clamping and cutting the umbilical cord. To withdraw the blood, a needle is placed into the cord. The blood is then collected in a bag.
The cord blood collection procedure is risk-free for both you and your baby. The entire procedure only takes a few minutes. Your provider will transmit it to the cord blood bank on your behalf.
How is cord blood stored?
Your healthcare professional will transfer the cord blood to a cord blood bank on your behalf. The blood is separated and typed.
It is also tested for illnesses and other ailments to ensure that it is safe to use. If the blood can be used, it is cryogenically frozen. The cord blood bank then holds it until a suitable match is found.