Cord blood is the blood present in the umbilical cord and placenta before, during, and after birth of an infant. Just like bone marrow, it contains an abundant amount of stem cells which can be used to treat many types of diseases.

Cord blood banking is the storage and preservation of cord blood at a facility for future use. There are two types of facilities: private and public banks. Private banks are facilities which store and preserve your baby's cord blood for a fee, usually costing between $1500-$2400 initially and between $100-$150 annually for storage. Public banks, on the other hand, are facilities which you can donate your baby's cord blood free of charge. The donated blood is then available for use by anyone in need of a stem cell transplant. If choosing to store or donate your baby's cord blood, notify the cord blood bank of your choice (private or public) as soon as possible, ideally before the 34th week of your pregnancy.
Read More: Cord Blood Saves Lives, http://babies411.com/babies411/articles/cord-blood-saves-lives-new.html

For More Baby Related Information:

Visit Us At: http://www.Babies411.com

Author's Bio: 

Diba Tillery RN, BSN, CPST
Babies 411 is an on-line information and resource center for parents. It has been developed by Diba, a neonatal intensive care nurse, with the sole purpose of promoting the health, safety, and well-being of all babies.