31 Jan Understanding Umbilical Cord Stem Cell Therapy

Stem cell therapy is not a one size fits all procedure.  There are a variety of different kinds of stem cells, and different patients or ailments may call for different treatment plans.  One of the most well-known types of stem cells is umbilical cord stem cells.  As the name suggests, they come from the umbilical cord of a woman who has just given birth, and the stem cells have the ability to differentiate into any kind of cell in the body.  However, many people have heard conflicting information regarding umbilical cord stem cells, and it’s about time the correct information was made clear.

Umbilical cord stem cell therapy utilizes “products of conception,” which include the umbilical cord, umbilical cord blood, placental membrane, and amniotic fluid.  These products of conception exist naturally in pregnant women to help the fetus thrive before birth.  However, after delivery, they are essentially useless and typically thrown out.  Research has shown that these products, which are normally discarded after birth, can have positive regenerative effects when used as stem cell therapy.

Products of conception are taken from consenting donors who are undergoing a scheduled c-section.  These products contain a high concentration of growth factors, stem cells, cytokines, and other materials known to stimulate the natural healing process in adults.  Once these products are taken from consenting donors, they are thoroughly tested, processed, and stored according to the highest standards to ensure the best results for patients.

Many people are hesitant about the use of umbilical cord stem cells because they are unsure if there are any ethical concerns with using the products.  Rest assured that the only ethical concerns with stem cells lie in using aborted fetus stem cells or embryonic stem cells, which are not allowed to be used at any clinic in the United States.  The products of conception are typically discarded after the birth of the child.  Therefore, using the products from consenting donors does not harm the baby or the mother. Umbilical cord stem cells are preferred to other forms of stem cells because they can differentiate into any kind of cell in the body.  This means they can be used to treat a wide range of ailments.  In addition, when processed and stored correctly, there is a very low risk of rejection.

Umbilical cord stem cells provide hope for many people suffering from a wide variety of ailments.  When provided at a reputable clinic, umbilical cord stem cell therapy can provide phenomenal results with very low risk to the patient.  The products of conception which develop naturally in pregnant women to help nourish a fetus can also help regenerate damaged tissues in adults.  It is important to schedule a consultation with your treating physician so you can ask any questions you may have about the process of umbilical cord stem cell therapy.  There have been massive advancements in this technology as the years go by, and now, patients can receive umbilical cord stem cell therapy in a safe, ethical, and effective manner.