When a family is expecting a new addition, they may wonder whether to use a private or public cord blood bank. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks, but it’s important to understand the differences before making a final decision. This article explains the pros and cons of each option so you can make the right choice for your family.
What is a Public Cord Blood Bank?
A public cord blood bank is a facility that accepts and stores donated cord blood for use by the general public. It does not cost anything to donate the blood to a public bank, and the blood can be used for anyone who needs a stem cell transplant. There are over 100 public cord blood banks in the US, Canada, Europe, and Australia. You can donate your baby’s cord blood to any of these banks, and if it’s a good match for someone who needs a stem cell transplant, it will be used.
What is a Private Cord Blood Bank?
A private cord blood bank is a facility that accepts and stores donated cord blood for the use of the donor only. Like a public cord blood bank, it does not cost anything to donate the blood to a private cord blood bank. You can donate your baby’s cord blood to any of the almost 100 private cord blood banks in the US, Canada, Europe, and Australia.
How to Decide: Which Option is Right for You?
When you’re trying to decide between public or private cord blood banking, the first thing you should do is talk to your doctor. They can help you make an informed decision about which is best for you. Here are a few questions to ask yourself as you’re making this decision:
– What is the likelihood of stem cells being needed in the future?
– If they are needed, who will need them?
– Who will be responsible for finding a donor?
– How will the costs be covered?
– Is the blood expected to be a good match for my family?
– Is there enough blood for everyone in my family?
– How long can blood be frozen for?
– What happens to the blood if I change my mind?
– What are the benefits of each option?
Key takeaway
Public vs private cord blood banks are two different ways of storing your child’s cord blood for future use. Public banks offer a completely free service where you can donate your child’s cord blood. Private banks charge a significant fee to store your child’s cord blood, but they do guarantee that you can use it for your family.
After reading this article, you should be able to make an informed decision about the right blood cord banking for your family. Since every family is different, there is no single right answer for which option is best. The most important thing is to educate yourself about your options and make an informed decision based on your family’s needs.
