Cord Blood Collection Process

Is collecting stem cells risky to the mother or baby? Collecting stem cells is painless, easy, safe for mother and baby, and does not alter the normal birthing process in any way. Stem cells from the umbilical cord blood are collected after your baby has been born and the umbilical cord has been clamped and cut. The umbilical cord is then routinely thrown away. The average

time for umbilical cord blood collection is about 5-10 minutes and is performed by your medical professionals. Can stem cells be collected after C-section deliveries? Yes, stem cells from the umbilical cord blood can be collected after C-section deliveries. Americord uses sterile collection bags, so doctors do not have to use C-section adaptors. Do I need a special cord blood bag if I have a C-section? Americord uses the only sterile exterior cord blood collection bag that has been approved by the FDA for all births so that our clients are covered whether they have a vaginal delivery or a Cesarean section.

Manufactured by Pall Corporation, Americord’s cord blood collection bag is ready to go for a Cesarean

section. Unlike some less expensive cord blood bags that can be adapted for C-section births, your doctor does not have to attach or sterilize any parts. Will my doctor know how to collect cord blood? Any doctor or midwife knows how to collect cord blood; it is a simple medical procedure. Easy to follow instructions are included in the cord blood collection kit. We also send a copy of the medical consent form to your healthcare provider so that if there are any questions in advance they can call or email us. I tested positive for CMV that I had prior to the pregnancy. How does it affect the collection of cord blood? Testing positive for cytomegalovirus (CMV) does not impact the collection of cord blood. We must collect your

complete family history, primarily for regulatory purposes, and CMV is just one part of your overall family

health history. Cord blood is only very rarely CMV positive and, even if transferred to the cord blood, it doesn’t

preclude the cord blood from being used. In the event that the cord blood is used, the medical professionals

will speak to you extensively about your entire medical history.