The placenta is a fascinating and vital organ that plays a critical role in supporting the growth and development of a fetus during pregnancy in mammals, including humans. It forms inside the uterus and acts as a bridge between the developing fetus and the mother, providing crucial functions for the nourishment, oxygenation, and waste elimination of the developing embryo or fetus.
Beyond its natural function during pregnancy, Placental tissue has recently gained attention for its potential therapeutic applications. The practice of utilizing frozen or dried placenta, commonly known as placenta encapsulation, has gained popularity in recent years among developed countries. Companies have sprouted up offering to turn placentas into smoothies, truffles, and freeze-dried pills, claiming that it can give recovering moms a boost of vitamins and nutrients and help prevent postpartum depression. It is an alien and less-known concept in developing countries, especially in Muslim countries where it is thrown and discarded.
The blood left over in the umbilical cord and placenta after a baby has born is commonly known as the Cord blood. Cord blood contains cells called hematopoietic stem cells. These Stem cells from your baby’s umbilical cord and placenta can provide life-saving treatment for your baby or a family member. Cord blood, cord tissue, and placenta tissue contain immature stem cells that can regenerate, restore, repair, and replace cells to treat various health conditions and disorders. These cells can turn into any kind of blood cell. They can be used for transplants that can cure diseases such as blood disorders, immune deficiencies, metabolic diseases, and even cancers like leukaemia, sickle cell anaemia or bone marrow transplant.
The blood can be collected and stored. Private cord banks preserve and store stem cells that families can use for future medical treatments if needed, and that’s what many private cord blood banking companies encourage parents to do so. The freezing process pauses the stem cell life cycle to halt further cell development and potential damage. Storing stem cells with a reputable private cord bank can potentially provide your baby or family with life-saving treatment options in the future.
Stem cell integrity remains intact when the cells are frozen because all molecular activity stops; thus, chances of further damage are eliminated. Researchers claim that stem cells can be stored for years or even decades until needed. Moreover, cord blood stored for over 10 years does not show any significant deterioration, and stem cells can last for decades in storage.
Stem cell storage is incredibly beneficial. Stem cells are immature cells with the potential to develop into platelets, white blood cells, and red blood cells. These regenerating cells can save your child’s life or a family member’s life in certain medical situations.
Storing your baby’s stem cells can provide the following benefits:
Immune system conditions
Cancer
Blood disorders
Genetic diseases
Alzheimer’s & Parkinson’s disease
Heart conditions
Diabetes
Brain and spinal cord injuries
Neurological disorders
Hormonal imbalance
Androgenic alopecia
It is crucial to highlight that stem cell fields are complex and highly regulated. Their safe and effective use requires rigorous scientific investigation, clinical trials and regulatory approval. It is essential to consult with qualified healthcare professionals before considering placenta encapsulation or any alternative treatment. The potential risk, including bacterial contamination or adverse reactions, should also be considered.
- Cord Blood: The Ultimate Gift - 20/08/2023
