Cord blood banking- CBR vs. Viacord

[Anonymous]

We have decided to store our baby's cord blood when he is born. We are trying to decide between CBR and Viacord. Has anyone made this decision recently and have any advice on which provider is better? The costs are similar.

Thanks!

[Anonymous]

there are several threads on this topic, if you get no replies you might want to search the archives

[Anonymous]

Things may have changed, but in 2007, I went with CBR. At that time, outside "experts" were recommending storage in plastic "cryovials" rather than plastic bags, saying the vials were better protection from the extreme cold temperatures. I have no clue if this is true or not, but CBR used glass vials/tubes for storage and Viacord didn't.

That might have changed. But I did as much independent research as I could, checking accreditation, etc., from sites other than the companies'.

[Anonymous]

You didn't ask about Lifebank USA but that is who we used. They've done some amazing research with human placenta-derived stem cells. We banked DS's cord blood but donated the placenta to be used for stem cell collection and research (placental linings are being used for various treatments - blindness and skin grafts, for example.) Great small company, wonderful storage facility. Highly recommend.

[Anonymous]

We chose to bank with Viacord. My husband did all kinds of research and consulted. The procedure worked like a charm at the hospital. No complaints here.

[Anonymous]

We went with CBR after doing a lot of research & have been very happy.