How is umbilical cord blood testing performed?

After giving birth, many expectant mothers choose to preserve their baby’s umbilical cord blood as a safeguard for the child’s future health. Prenatal umbilical cord blood testing is one type of maternal health examination. So, how is umbilical cord blood testing performed?

How Is Umbilical Cord Blood Testing Performed?

During pregnancy, umbilical cord blood sampling (also known as cordocentesis) is typically performed by inserting a fine needle through the mother’s abdominal wall into the umbilical cord near the fetal umbilicus to collect a blood sample. This procedure may be recommended if chromosomal abnormalities or inherited metabolic disorders are suspected during pregnancy. However, it carries certain risks for both mother and fetus—such as umbilical cord hematoma, intrauterine fetal demise, or placental abruption. Fortunately, these complications are relatively rare, and the procedure remains generally safe when performed by experienced professionals. If evaluation for inherited metabolic diseases or chromosomal/genetic abnormalities is indicated, we recommend timely completion of umbilical cord blood testing.

After delivery and clamping/severing of the umbilical cord, the residual blood remaining in the umbilical cord and placenta is termed umbilical cord blood. This blood contains hematopoietic stem cells, which can treat numerous diseases. Clinically, hematopoietic stem cell therapy is used for conditions such as leukemia, lymphoma, and aplastic anemia. Moreover, umbilical cord blood-derived hematopoietic stem cell transplantation can treat many other disorders. Therefore, if financially feasible, preserving umbilical cord blood provides valuable long-term health security for your child.

New mothers should ensure adequate nutrition and sufficient rest after childbirth to bolster their immunity and resistance, thereby facilitating faster postpartum recovery. We hope this information proves helpful!