How long can cord blood be stored?

How long can I store my cord blood?

The good news is that long-term storage is possible.

Cord blood is a valuable source of stem cells, which can be used to treat a wide range of diseases and medical conditions. Preserving cord blood is an important decision that many new parents face, as it can provide a potentially life-saving resource for their child or other family members.

However, one important question that often arises is how long can cord blood be stored?

The answer to this question is not straightforward, as there are various factors that can affect the longevity of cord blood storage.

These factors include the storage method, the quality of the sample, and the conditions in which the sample is stored.

Moreover, there are various regulations and guidelines that dictate how cord blood should be stored, and these can differ from country to country.

In this blog post, we will explore the topic of cord blood storage in depth, and provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision about preserving your child’s cord blood. 

1. Cord blood can be stored.

Cord blood, which is collected from the umbilical cord after a baby is born, is a rich source of stem cells that can be used to treat a variety of diseases and conditions.

One of the benefits of cord blood is that it can be stored for later use. Cord blood banking is becoming increasingly popular as more parents recognize the potential benefits of storing their child’s cord blood.

Cord blood can be stored for many years, and studies have shown that stem cells stored in this way can remain viable and effective for up to 25 years or more. This means that cord blood can be stored for long periods of time, providing a valuable resource for future medical needs.

The process of storing cord blood is safe, simple, and non-invasive, and can be done at many hospitals and medical facilities.

2. Long-term storage is possible.

Cord blood banking is a process that involves collecting and storing the blood found in the umbilical cord immediately after a baby is born.

This blood contains stem cells that can be used to treat a variety of diseases and disorders. One of the most common questions parents ask when considering cord blood banking is, “How long can cord blood be stored?”

 Cord blood can be stored for many years in liquid nitrogen at temperatures of -196°C. The stem cells in cord blood have been successfully used after being stored for over 20 years, demonstrating the durability of the storage process.

Additionally, advances in storage technology and techniques continue to improve the quality and longevity of cord blood storage.

3. Cryopreservation is the method.

Cryopreservation is the method used for the long-term storage of cord blood. This process involves freezing the cord blood at very low temperatures, typically below -130°C, to preserve the stem cells. Cryopreservation has been shown to be a safe and effective method for storing cord blood for many years.

It has been used for decades in the medical field to preserve tissues, blood products, and organs for transplantation. With cryopreservation, cord blood stem cells can be stored for years without any significant loss of viability or potency.

Therefore, cryopreservation is an essential step in the storage and preservation of cord blood for future use.

4. Cord blood can be viable.

Cord blood, which is collected from the umbilical cord and placenta after childbirth, contains valuable stem cells that can be used to treat a variety of medical conditions.

One of the most common questions regarding cord blood storage is how long it can be stored while maintaining its viability. Studies have shown that properly stored cord blood can remain viable for up to 20 years.

In fact, some cord blood banks have reported successful stem cell transplants using cord blood that had been stored for over two decades. However, it’s important to note that proper storage methods, such as cryopreservation at a temperature of -196 degrees Celsius, are crucial in ensuring the longevity and viability of cord blood.

5. Up to 15 years possible.

Cord blood banking has become a popular practice among parents in recent years, as it offers a valuable resource for potential future medical treatments. One common question that arises is how long can cord blood be stored for.

The good news is that cord blood can be stored for up to 15 years or even longer, depending on the storage facility and the specific regulations in place. This means that if you choose to bank your baby’s cord blood, it can potentially be used for treatments years down the line, providing a valuable source of stem cells that can be used to treat a wide range of medical conditions.

It is important to choose a reputable cord blood bank with a proven track record of safe and effective storage to ensure that your baby’s cord blood remains viable for as long as possible.

6. Some banks offer longer storage.

When it comes to cord blood storage, it’s important to consider the length of time the blood can be stored and whether or not your chosen storage provider can accommodate your needs.

Some banks offer longer storage options that can provide peace of mind for families who want to ensure that their child’s cord blood is available for a longer period of time.

These extended storage options can vary depending on the bank and may come at an additional cost. It’s important to research and compare storage options from different banks to determine which one best meets your needs and budget. Ultimately, the length of storage you choose will depend on your individual preferences and priorities.

7. Quality decreases over time.

One of the major concerns when it comes to storing cord blood is the decrease in quality over time. Although cord blood can be stored for many years, it is important to note that the longer it is stored, the lower its quality becomes.

Multiple studies have shown that the number of viable cells in cord blood decreases over time, which makes it less effective in treating certain diseases or conditions. The decrease in quality is due to a natural aging process that occurs in all cells, including those in cord blood.

Therefore, it is important to consider the age of the stored cord blood when deciding to use it for treatment. In general, it is recommended to use cord blood that has been stored for less than 10 years to ensure the highest quality and effectiveness.

8. Public donation may be better.

When it comes to the storage of cord blood, there are various options available for parents to consider. While private cord blood banking may seem like the obvious choice for many, public donation may be a better option for those who are looking to contribute to the greater good.

Public donation allows cord blood to be used for patients in need who are a match for the donated cord blood. This can be especially important for individuals from minority communities who may have difficulty finding a match.

Additionally, public donation is often free and can be a more cost-effective option for families who may not be able to afford the expenses associated with private cord blood banking.

It is important to note, however, that not all hospitals offer the option for public donation, so it is important to research your options and make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances.

9. Consult with your doctor.

When it comes to the storage of cord blood, it is important to consult with your doctor to determine the best course of action for you and your family.

Your doctor can inform you about the various options available for cord blood storage and help you make an informed decision.

Additionally, your doctor can provide recommendations about reputable cord blood banks and the length of time cord blood can be stored.

It is recommended to ask your doctor about the optimal storage period for cord blood, as different banks may have varying storage times.

Your doctor can also advise you on the potential benefits of cord blood banking and whether it would be a suitable option for your family.

Ultimately, consulting with your doctor can provide you with valuable information and guidance to make the best decision for your family’s future health and well-being.

10. Consider all options carefully.

When deciding whether to store cord blood, it is important to consider all options carefully. Cord blood banking can offer potential medical benefits for your child and family, but it also comes with costs and limitations. One key factor to consider is the length of time that cord blood can be stored.

While some cord blood banks claim up to 25 years of storage, the fact is that there is no definitive answer as to how long cord blood can be stored and still remain viable for use in medical treatments.

It is crucial to do your research and carefully evaluate the available options when considering cord blood banking for your family.

This includes researching the reputation and accreditation of potential cord blood banks, as well as the costs and benefits of the various storage options. Ultimately, the decision to store cord blood is a personal one that should be made based on careful consideration of all available information.

In conclusion, the storage of cord blood is a valuable investment in the future health of your child. With advancements in technology and research, the potential uses for cord blood continue to expand, making it a precious resource for medical treatment.

Most cord blood banks offer storage options for up to 25 years, with some even offering indefinite storage. It’s essential to research and choose a reputable cord blood bank that follows strict guidelines for collection, processing, and storage.

By doing so, you can rest assured that your child’s cord blood will be available and viable for use when needed.