When you're expecting a baby, your to-do list multiplies faster than your laundry pile. One of those “should-we-or-shouldn’t-we” decisions that often slips to the bottom is cord blood banking. Maybe you've heard it’s not worth it, or your doctor mentioned it briefly, and you’re a bit confused. Or maybe you’ve heard it’s one of the best decisions parents can make, and that it brings true peace of mind.

While the choice to pursue cord blood banking is a personal one, this article helps break down the pros and cons, separates myth from fact, and offers a clear, no-pressure guide. This, along with your discussion with your healthcare provider, allows you to make an informed decision that works for your family.

woman holding a liter of blood

So what is cord blood banking?

When your baby is born, the umbilical cord isn’t just a lifeline — it’s also packed with something pretty incredible. The cord has two valuable components: cord blood and cord tissue. Both are rich in powerful stem cells that researchers are exploring for their potential to help the body heal itself in new and exciting ways.

In fact, cord blood stem cells are already being used today in treatments for some blood disorders, immune deficiencies, and certain cancers through stem cell transplants. And while this field is still evolving, researchers are exploring even more ways these cells could be used in the future.

Why choose to preserve

Here are key reasons why families choose to bank their baby’s cord blood and cord tissue:

  • Medical use today: Cord blood can be used in stem cell transplants to treat over 80 known conditions today, including certain cancers, blood and immune system disorders, and metabolic disorders.
  • It’s a perfect match (literally): Your baby’s cord blood is a 100% match for them and may be a potential partial match for biological siblings and parents.
  • Non-invasive collection: It’s painless and safe for both mom and baby as it happens after birth and after the umbilical cord has been cut.
  • Hope for the future: While today’s uses are already impressive, research is actively exploring new possibilities. Conditions like cerebral palsy, autism, and type 1 diabetes are being studied, so banking now could unlock future treatment options.
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Cord blood banking myth vs. fact

Cord blood banking comes with its fair share of myths, misconceptions, and half-truths — and when you're already juggling baby prep, that noise doesn’t help. We're cutting through the confusion and breaking down some of the most common myths with the real facts.

Myth #1: “Delayed cord clamping means you can't collect cord blood.”

Fact: You can do both. In fact, delayed cord clamping of 30-60 seconds has not been found to significantly diminish the cell count of cord blood collected and delayed cord clamping has no impact on the ability to perform cord tissue collection.

Myth #2: “Cord blood banking is pointless because it’s only stored for a year.”

Fact: Not true. Private banks, like CBR, offer long-term storage, including 18-year and lifetime storage options.

Myth #3: “Cord blood isn’t useful today — it’s all for future science.”

Fact: This is false. Cord blood stem cell transplants are being used right now to help treat over 80+ conditions today. And yes, it is also being studied for future applications.

woman holding her newborn baby in the hospital

So, should you do cord blood banking?

Is cord blood banking right for you? That really depends on you and your family. If you have a family history of certain conditions, banking your baby’s cord blood and cord tissue might bring some increased peace of mind. Another reason to invest in what newborn stem cells can provide today and potentially in the future is the value of scientific and technological advancements.

Here's the bottom line: This is a legitimate medical option with real potential — especially when you choose a trusted cord blood bank. Cord Blood Registry is the largest and most experienced private cord blood bank in the world, with over one million cord blood and cord tissue samples stored, the most in the industry. If you’re leaning toward storing your baby’s newborn stem cells, CBR is a solid place to start. And the best part? You can even add it to baby’s gift registry list.

At the end of the day, like most parenting choices, it comes down to what fits your values, your budget, and your long-term plans. Whatever you decide, talk with your healthcare provider, and you can check this off your baby-prep list knowing you’ve got the facts — and made the call that’s right for your family.

Dahlia Rimmon is a freelance writer, editor, and registered dietitian. She writes for various publications and family-focused brands, covering everything from food and supplements to overall health and wellness. Her experience spans private practice, consulting, and working in the baby food industry. She lives in St. Louis with her family.