Q. Can cord blood be collected if I deliver on the weekend?
A. Yes. Cord blood collections can be obtained 7 days a week, 24 hours a day.
Q. Can I donate if I have a C-section?
A. The collection kit provided is completely sterile and therefore approved for use during a C-section. However, it is still up to your physician whether or not to collect during a C-section. This should be discussed prior to delivery.
Q. Can the father of the baby still cut the umbilical cord?
A. Yes. Since the collection takes place after the umbilical cord bas been cut, whoever wishes to cut the cord can do so.
Q. Does cord blood donation mandate early clamping of the umbilical cord?
A. For donation to the St. Louis Cord Blood Bank, the physicians are told NOT to alter their birthing practice to collect the cord blood. It is up to the family and their physician to create a birthing plan that meets their needs. This is a personal decision and you are encouraged to discuss this with your physician.
Q. What if my child develops a medical condition requiring a stem cell transplant?
A. If you child or other family member ever require medical treatment for a serious life threatening disorder and need treatment with stem cell transplantation, the cord may have been used for another person or used for research. If the product is still in the bank, it will be available for review by your physician.
Q. Does it cost me anything to donate cord blood?
A. There are no costs involved in donating cord blood. Unrelated donor cord blood banks, like the St. Louis Cord Blood Bank will take care of the procedure and cover the cost of processing and storing your baby's cord blood unit.
Q. Why isn't there a cord blood bank or collecting hospital in my area?
A. Cord blood donation is currently not possible in many communities. Many do not have the technical and/or financial resources needed to establish and operate a public cord blood bank.
For More Information
Call the St. Louis Cord Blood Bank at 314-268-2787 or 888-453-2673 to register. A nurse is available to answer your questions between the hours of 7 AM and 6 PM Monday through Friday. You may make this call at anytime during your pregnancy.
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