Cord blood stem cell collection

We are working in partnership with Cells4Life to provide cord blood stem cell collection services from our maternity units at Epsom and St Helier hospitals.

Over the last two decades, stem cell banking has become routine practice for many families throughout the world for treatment of a variety of diseases, or for future therapeutic uses which are currently in their research phase, including type 1 diabetes, Parkinson disease and Cerebral Palsy. Until recently, bone marrow was the primary source of stem cells but the use of cord blood stem cells has become routine for transplantations, and has now evolved as the primary source.

Your baby’s umbilical cord blood is one of the richest and most powerful sources of stem cells available. In all births, some cord blood is left behind in the umbilical cord and placenta after the baby is delivered and the umbilical cord is cut. Collecting it is quick, simple, safe and non-invasive.

In the UK, we throw away 60,000 litres per year of what is potentially a life-changing and even life-saving resource. We want to change this.

Cord blood stem cell collection at Epsom and St Helier

Our Maternity units at both Epsom and St Helier hospitals are working alongside Cells4Life, the UK’s largest cord blood bank, to offer public and private cord blood storage programs. This gives you the option to donate your baby’s cord blood for the public good, or retain it for the exclusive use of your child and your family.

Your antenatal midwife will consent you for donation - if you do not wish to donate your cord blood, you can of course opt out. 

Further information is avaiulable at http://cells4life.com (opens in a new window) or on discussion with the antenatal midwives.