What Kind of Blood Does the Umbilical Cord Contain?

The umbilical cord nourishes the fetus while in the womb and is the lifeline between child and the placenta. The blood vessels that run between fetus and placenta are protected by the umbilical cord.

History

Cord blood has been routinely disposed of after birth. However, it is known now that the umbilical cord blood has medical importance.

Hematopoietic Stem Cells

Cord blood is a good source of hematopoietic stem cells, which can produce blood cells, including red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.

Significance

Stem cells can be used to treat a number of serious conditions, including immune system illnesses and leukemia. Approximately 70 disorders have been treated with stem cells, according to the March of Dimes.

Function

Red blood cells are important for clotting, white blood cells bring oxygen to other cells in the body, and platelets fight disease.

Benefits

The use of cord blood to fight disease is a growing trend. One advantage is that a noninvasive procedure is done to collect it, minimizing any risk to those involved and cord blood appears less likely to create infections or mismatch problems.

References

• March of Dimes: Umbilical Cord Blood
• Kidshealth.org: Banking Your Newborn's Cord Blood

Resources

• Yale University School of Medicine: The Umbilical Cord