Donation of cord blood also involves performing 2 blood tests on the woman for HIV / AIDS and other viruses such as Hepatitis B or C. The first test is done soon after the baby is born (or within a day or so following the birth). The second test is taken 6 months after the baby is born. This is because there is a 'window period' of up to 3 months between contracting some of these viruses and a blood test being able to detect them. Each test involves taking 2 tubes of blood (about 10 to 15mls).
The information sheet and consent form you signed includes information about these tests, and the implications of what receiving a 'positive' blood test result could mean. All test results are kept confidential but would be disclosed to you by your caregiver. You will also be asked questions relating to whether you would be at increased risk of carrying these viruses. This includes whether you have used injected drugs over the last 5 years, worked as a sex worker and if your partner (or the father of the baby) is bisexual or homosexual or has used injected drugs.
These are standard requirements for any types of blood donations in Australia.
Questionnaire
The cord blood collector needs to complete a questionnaire about your medical and family history. This will be done after the cord collection has been successful, usually within a day or so following the birth. Information that is recorded includes questions relating to: