The Thing That Wasn't on My Registry (But Maybe Should Have Been)

When I was pregnant with my twins, I was not what you'd call a planner. I had the basics covered and a general sense of optimism, which — if you've ever carried two babies at once — you know is both completely understandable and slightly delusional. Cord blood banking wasn't even on my radar, and honestly, I wish someone had brought it up.

You've got enough to think about when prepping for baby: diapers, wipes, a bassinet that fits in your room. Cord blood banking didn't make my list the first time around, and I get why it doesn't make most people's. But the stem cells in your baby's cord blood are packed with powerful cells that could treat over 70 conditions, including leukemia and immune disorders. They're a perfect match for your baby and possibly siblings, too. The collection itself is quick, safe, and painless: it happens right after birth, so it's not adding anything to your plate in the moment. And ongoing medical research could unlock even more uses in the future.

The honest caveat: private banking isn't cheap. But some parents are now adding it to their baby registry... because it's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bank something priceless. And unlike the fourth muslin blanket on your list, this one actually has a shot at mattering in ways you can't fully anticipate yet.

Use promo code SCRP at cordblood.com for 50% off CBR's annual bundle, including processing, shipping, and the first year of storage. And if you want to find out more about cord blood banking, we've got you.

The registry list is long. This one's worth adding.