Umbilical Cord Stem Cell Preservation – Why opt for it?

Right from the moment you first hear the news of your pregnancy, you start planning for the upcoming new member. You plan their arrival, listing out names for the child, decorating their room and buying clothes in advance. You are extra careful about the child's security. You plug empty sockets and make sure the table doesn't have pointed corners. You keep all the fragile objects away from the reach of the child and ensure the child's safety and security. All this even before the child is born!

So why not do something which would insure the child's health for years. Many smart parents have realised the need of the hour and are going a step further ensuring the safety of their kids for the long run by preserving the little ones umbilical cord stem cells. Isn't it the best gift a parent can give to their child?

So what is Stem Cell?

Aptly called the magical cells, these cells are found in the umbilical cord that connects the mother and child in the womb. While the child is in the womb, this cord provides life to the child by regular flow of nutrients. Not only this but this cord gives life even after the child is born.

The umbilical cord contains blood and cord blood stem cells which are master cells that have the capability to multiply and give rise to specific cell types. They also possess the ability to regenerate. It has been proved that Umbilical Cord Blood Stem Cells can cure up to 80+ life threatening diseases like Leukaemia, Sickle Cells Anaemia, Thalassemia and many more.

The procedure includes collection of cord blood after the umbilical cord has been clamped. This blood is then safely transported in a temperature controlled box to the research centre. It is then processed and the stem cells extracted from this blood are safely preserved at -1960C. These cells can be retrieved whenever required by the family.

Is it worth preserving Cord Blood Stem Cells?

Definitely! These cells are immature and can be multiplied. Also, these cells have the potential to turn themselves into other cells and function accordingly. These cells do not require as strict HLA match as that required for sources like bone marrow or the blood stream since they have less mature antigens.

It indicates that transplants involving Haematopoietic Stem Cells from cord blood will cause less adverse reactions because the donor's cells will be accepted by recipient more easily. These cells will not be identified as foreign bodies and hence will not be attacked by the recipient's immune system.

Beauty of these magical cells is that these cells possess potential to treat siblings or other family members with greater matching competence and better treatment outcomes.

Babycell values you and your loved ones life and are striving to preserve it by storing these valuable and magical cells. So if you are preparing to welcome your new child, gift him a healthy life by pledging to preserve your new ones stem cells.

Author Bio:
Dr. Hema Mathurkar
Dr. Mathurkar, is M.B.B.S; MD Microbiology. Dr. Mathurkar is a key support and guide, directing the lab team to promote optimal clinical outcomes.
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