Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.
Expecting parents are more conscious than ever today and go the extra mile to understand their options for preserving the baby’s cord blood. They have a choice to bank it, donate it, or just get it discarded as medical waste. A large number is opting for the procedure as a biological insurance for the future of their child and family. But do you know that the placenta has great potential for stem cell treatment? Just like cord blood, the placenta houses the precious, life-saving stem cells that can be used for treating a host of diseases that your child or a family member may suffer from in the future. Let us understand the amazing potential of placental stem cells.
The power of placental blood
The blood which remains within the placental vessels after birth is high in hematopoietic stem cells. These are just like the cells in the umbilical cord blood. In fact, research studies indicate that placental blood has a higher concentration of immature stem cells and also contains more mesenchymal cells as compared to cord blood. More cells obviously translate into better treatment outcomes, which makes placental blood all the more effective. Additionally, the chances of a graft-versus-host response are fewer with immature stem cells. Considering these immense benefits, would-be parents are investing in the option of placental blood banking, which is done with a procedure similar to cord blood banking.
The power of placental tissue
Apart from blood in the placenta, its tissue also opens a big opportunity for parents who want to ensure a healthy future for their baby. More amazingly, these cells may have applications that differ from those of the ones found in the blood. These tissues contain mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs), which are being studied for application in regenerative medicine. Studies have indicated their potential for reducing inflammation and modulating the immune system. Besides MSCs, the placenta also stores endothelial and epithelial stem cells. These cells promote blood vessel formation and the growth of skin respectively. Now you would want to know how does placental tissue banking work if you plan to consider this option. The process is as simple as including your placental tissue along with the cord blood and storing it for future use. You can have it collected and preserved with the cord blood at the time of delivery.
Are you considering placental tissue banking?
The potential of placental tissue is not just a fad. Over the years, scientific studies have established its efficacy for treating conditions such as diabetes, cartilage injuries, ulcerative colitis, and spinal cord injuries. If you are considering the procedure, the good news is that you easily can get this service from a cord blood bank for an additional fee. This is absolutely worthwhile because you shouldn’t lose a life-saving resource that is otherwise discarded after birth.
Stem cell therapy can save lives as it is capable of treating chronic conditions effectively. However, you can avail of the benefits of this therapy only if you take the right decision at the time of the birth of your baby. The decision can assure a healthier future for your family.
