Cord Blood Banking-- Donation vs Private Storage

I am leaning towards private storage. While it makes no difference now, perhaps there will be technological advances in the future where having access to your own cord blood, with your family's DNA, will be able to provide advanced medical assistance should the need arise.

Does anyone know if it really makes a difference??

I asked my doc today what his preference was, and he said their office's official POV is to go with New York Blood Bank, as opposed to Viacord or CBR.

Re: Cord Blood Banking-- Donation vs Private Storage

Do you still have to pay to have the doctor save the cord blood even if using NY Cord Bank?

My OB charges $125 to save the cord blood. Not sure if that cost will be picked up by NY Cord Bank tho. :P

Re: Cord Blood Banking-- Donation vs Private Storage

I am not sure-- but $125 is nothing compared to around 3 grand plus the $125 annually. My doc said they didn't take any money from anyone-- but I think some docs get kickbacks from the private storage facilities.

Re: Cord Blood Banking-- Donation vs Private Storage

I was going to go towards donation until I found out that you can't donate with twins. I went with a private bank that is affiliated with the NJ cord blood bank. They were much cheaper than viacord or CBR.
You have to check that they have a partnership with the hospital you are delivering though.
I'm pretty sure if you donate they will pay all the fees associated with it.