Cord Blood Collection

Our cord blood collection methods are efficient and convenient. Our laboratory facility ensures the highest cell recovery rates.
 
The collection itself, which takes less than 5 minutes, is clean and does not interfere with the delivery. Since the collection happens after delivery, there is no pain or risk to mother or infant. As with any birth, the birthing specialist will clamp and cut the umbilical cord. Instead of discarding the umbilical cord, a small area of the cord adjacent to the clamp is sanitized and the needle of the collection bag is inserted into the umbilical vein allowing the blood to flow naturally into the collection bag. This method is preferred by physicians and midwives for its ease of use and ability to achieve an optimal collection volume.

Insception Lifebank uses the bag method for collection of cord blood. The collection bag has 16-gauge needle and typically the collection of umbilical cord blood requires just one needle stick. The blood flows from the cord via gravity to the blood bag, allowing the procedure to be done by a single person. Most medical professionals find the blood bag method the most convenient method of collection.

We recommend that a minimum of 35ml of cord blood be collected (not including the 35ml of anticoagulant already contained in the collection bag). The collection bag can hold up to 250 mL total volume (including anticoagulant). Collection should be allowed to continue until cord blood no longer flows from the cord. For more information on cord blood volume, please see our guide: How Much Cord Blood is Enough?

Below you will find our Protocol for the Collection of Cord Blood including SOGC Collection Guidelines as well as instructions for the preparation and labelling of the sample:

Cord Blood Collection Protocol/Quick Collection Guide/Cord Blood Labeling Instructions