Anja FAQ: Eligibility & Enrollment

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Can I still bank with preeclampsia?

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We understand that preeclampsia can be a concerning condition during pregnancy. The ability to store your baby's stem cells may depend on the severity and specific circumstances of your preeclampsia.

In some cases, if your preeclampsia is well-managed and under control, it may still be possible to proceed with the collection and storage of your baby's stem cells. However, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider and discuss your individual situation.

Your healthcare provider will assess your medical condition and provide guidance based on your specific circumstances. They will consider factors such as the severity of preeclampsia, the gestational age of your baby, and any other relevant medical considerations.

At Anja, the health and safety of both you and your baby are our primary concerns. We encourage you to have open and transparent communication with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action regarding stem cell banking in the presence of preeclampsia.

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I stored my placenta in the freezer. Can I still send it to Anja?

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We understand that some parents may have taken the initiative to store their cord blood, cord tissue, or placenta in the freezer, hoping to utilize it for banking later on. However, we cannot accept previously stored stem cells for stem cell banking at Anja.

The reason behind this is the stringent scientific and quality protocols we adhere to. Our stem cell storage process requires specific procedures and conditions right from the moment of placental collection to ensure the highest quality and viability of the stem cells. Unfortunately, we are unable to validate the viability and integrity of stem cells stored under different conditions.

To ensure the best outcomes for your child's future health, we recommend contacting Anja within 6 hours after the birth of your baby. Our team will guide you through the proper collection and storage procedures, ensuring the optimal preservation of your baby's stem cells.

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Can I still store stem cells if I have a fever?

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If you have a fever at the time of your baby's birth, it is important to inform your provider. In some cases, a fever may be a sign of an underlying infection or medical condition that could affect the suitability of collecting and storing the stem cells.

The safety and quality of the stem cells are of utmost importance to us at Anja. If there are any concerns regarding the collection process due to a fever, it is best to consult with your provider and follow their guidance.

While a fever may not necessarily disqualify you from storing stem cells, it is essential to ensure that the collection is conducted under appropriate medical supervision and adherence to stringent protocols to maintain the integrity and viability of the stem cells.

Your health and the well-being of your baby are our top priorities, and we want to ensure that the stem cell banking process is carried out safely and effectively.

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If I have a pre-existing medical condition, will it affect the viability of the stem cells?

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Having a pre-existing medical condition does not directly impact the viability of the stem cells that are collected and stored for your baby. The viability and quality of the stem cells are primarily determined by the collection and storage processes, rather than the medical conditions of the parent.

However, it is important to note that certain medical conditions or treatments may affect the eligibility or suitability of using the stored stem cells for certain therapies. It is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider to assess the compatibility and potential use of the stem cells in relation to your specific medical condition.

At Anja, we prioritize the safety and efficacy of stem cell banking, and our team is available to address any concerns or questions you may have regarding the impact of pre-existing medical conditions on stem cell viability. Feel free to reach out to our customer support team for personalized guidance and assistance at hello@anjahealth.com.

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Can I bank cord blood if I have a home birth?

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In short, yes! And your home birth midwife, doula, or partner can assist you in collection.

The only difference would be that - if you're not giving birth in a hospital - we'd verify that you have access to tools for blood collection and labels.

Blood collection tools are for collecting a sample of the mother's blood as we screen it for disease.

Labels are for ensuring everything that is collected is identified in multiple different ways, according to FDA and AABB regulations.

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I'm due soon. When should I order?

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We can get kits to parents within 3 days of their due date, but we recommend that parents enroll as early as possible because we've had numerous clients unexpectedly go into labor early.

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Can I practice delayed cord clamping and still bank the stem cells?

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Yes! Cord blood banking is still an option with your Anja Kit, even if you request delayed cord clamping. Your healthcare team will monitor and give your baby extra time to receive more cord blood while ensuring enough is left to collect.

With your Anja Kit, you can delay for a maximum of 2 minutes and have plenty to bank cord blood for future cell treatment options.

To learn more in-depth, check out our post What is Delayed Cord Clamping?

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What if I have a Cesarean section?

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You can still bank your baby's stem cells even if you have a Cesarean section (C-section). The method of delivery, whether it's a vaginal birth or a C-section, does not generally impact the collection or storage of cord blood and tissue.

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