How common is it to preserve an umbilical cord?

Preserving the umbilical cord has become increasingly common in recent years, especially for its potential in stem cell banking. Many fertility clinics, gynecologists, and obstetricians offer cord blood banking services, allowing parents to store and preserve the cord blood for future medical use.

The preservation process typically involves collecting and storing the cord blood after the baby's birth. The blood is rich in stem cells, which have the potential to develop into a variety of cell types and be used to treat various medical conditions. Cord blood banking provides an opportunity to save these stem cells for the child's future or for use within the family, if compatible.

The decision to preserve the umbilical cord and store the cord blood involves several factors and may vary depending on individual circumstances and medical considerations. It is essential to discuss this with a healthcare provider to understand the potential benefits and limitations associated with cord blood banking.