Cord Blood Testing and Banking Test
Cord blood testing checks the blood left in the umbilical cord after birth to evaluate a newborn's health, including oxygen levels, bilirubin, infection, blood sugar, and drug exposure. Cord blood banking saves stem cells from this blood for future medical treatments.
What this test measures
Cord blood testing measures blood gases (oxygen and pH), bilirubin levels, infection markers (via blood culture and complete blood count), blood glucose, and exposure to certain drugs. Cord blood banking collects stem cells that can treat blood disorders, immune system disorders, and inherited metabolic diseases.
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Higher-than-normal results
A high result depends on what was measured. For example, high bilirubin may indicate jaundice or liver disease; high blood glucose may be linked to maternal diabetes. Ask your baby's provider for specific interpretation.
Lower-than-normal results
A low result depends on what was measured. For example, low oxygen or abnormal pH may indicate a health issue. Ask your baby's provider for specific interpretation.
Frequently asked questions
What is cord blood?
Cord blood is the blood left in the umbilical cord after a baby is born. It contains stem cells that can develop into different types of cells in the body.
What is the difference between cord blood testing and banking?
Cord blood testing checks the baby's health right after birth. Cord blood banking saves the blood for possible future medical treatments.
What conditions can cord blood stem cells treat?
They can treat certain blood disorders like leukemia, Hodgkin disease, and some anemias, as well as inherited metabolic and immune system disorders.
Can I donate cord blood to a public bank?
Yes, you can donate to a public cord blood bank at no cost. However, only certain hospitals can collect cord blood for public banks.
How much does private cord blood banking cost?
Private cord blood banking usually requires a fee for collection and storage. But if you or a close family member already has a disease that needs cord blood treatment, you may qualify for free or low-cost banking.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: Cord Blood Testing and Banking — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.