The RCOG is concerned by reports from the Human Tissue Authority (HTA) about unlawful cord blood collection. The reports suggest that incidents have taken place in which cord blood collection has compromised safety and quality standards.
According to the current HTA regulations, cord blood can only be collected under an HTA license by a specially trained professional.
Parents considering cord blood collection should discuss options with their midwife or healthcare provider well in advance of the birth. The RCOG supports the altruistic donation of cord blood for public banking but considers that the benefit of private cord blood banking for low-risk families is less clear cut. If cord blood collection is undertaken, it is important to ensure that blood is collected safely and in accordance with relevant regulations.
9 March 2010
Notes
The RCOG Scientific Opinion Paper on Umbilical Cord Blood Banking is available online here.
RCOG Patient Information for parents about cord blood banking is available here.
To view the press release issued by the Human Tissue Authority (HTA), please click here. HTA information about cord blood collection is available here.