the9months

Planning ahead: cord-blood banking

In recent years, a new option has become available for parents who wish to prepare for every possibility. In the past, after a baby was delivered, the placenta and umbilical cord were discarded. Then it was found that these organs are a source of the same kinds of blood-forming stem cells as is bone marrow. These cells can be collected, stored, and, if needed, used to treat a range of serious illnesses. (more…)