Cord blood

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Cord blood

Definition:

Cord blood is a sample of blood collected from the umbilical cord at the time of birth.

How the test is performed:

Immediately after the birth of your baby, the umbilical cord is clamped and cut. If cord blood is to be drawn, another clamp is placed 8 to 10 inches away from the first, then the isolated section is cut and a blood sample is collected into a specimen tube.

How to prepare for the test:

No special preparation is necessary for this test.

How the test will feel:

You will not feel anything beyond the normal birthing process.

Why the test is performed:

Cord blood testing is performed to assess the following:

Blood gases, to evaluate the oxygen, carbon dioxide, and pH levels
Blood type and Rh
Respiratory status
Complete blood count (CBC)
Platelet count
Hemoglobin levels (Hgb)
Hematocrit (HCT)
Bilirubin levels
Glucose
Blood culture (if an infection is suspected)

Review Date: 7/8/2004
Reviewed By: Bryan R. Hecht, M.D., Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine, Rootstown, OH. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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