Health and Me

Supriya Ramesh

Egg Freezing Demystified: How Many Eggs and Cycles Does It Take?

Egg Freezing

If modern life had a “pause” button, many women would happily press it on their biological clocks. That is essentially what <span>egg freezing</span> offers: a chance to preserve <span>fertility</span> for the future. But the two questions that inevitably surface are how many eggs should you freeze and how many <span>cycles</span> will it take to get there? The short answer is, it depends. 

When it comes to egg freezing, more is not always better, but a certain number is definitely necessary. Dr Navina Singh, fertility specialist at Birla Fertility &amp; IVF, Mumbai, says women in their late twenties or early thirties generally need to freeze around 15 mature eggs to have a fair chance at one live birth. For those beyond the mid-thirties, the number usually goes up to 20 or more. Because as time ticks on, both the number and quality of eggs decline, reducing the likelihood of a healthy <span>embryo</span> developing from each egg.

Dr Swati Mishra, another fertility specialist, says, "On average, women in their early thirties are advised to freeze 10–15 mature eggs to maintain good chances of embryo formation later. For women in their late thirties, the target is higher, often 20 or more.” 

<h3>The Cycle Question: One and Done, or More Than One?</h3>

Many women walk into clinics hoping a single cycle of ovarian stimulation will do the trick. Sometimes it does. But sometimes, biology has other plans.

“Some women respond strongly to stimulation and can collect the required number in one attempt,” explains Dr Singh. “Others, especially those with lower ovarian reserve, may need two or even three cycles. This is not a failure; it is simply how <span>ovaries</span> differ in their response.”

Dr Mishra adds that this variation is one of the biggest surprises for women: “It is natural biology. We prepare women from the outset that while some will achieve the target in one cycle, others may need more. It all comes down to ovarian reserve and individual response.”

In other words, if your ovaries are playing hard to get, patience and persistence are part of the process.

<h3>Behind the Numbers: How Doctors Decide</h3>

How do doctors know how many eggs or cycles a woman might need? Tests like AMH (anti-Müllerian hormone) and antral follicle counts help gauge ovarian reserve. These markers, combined with age and reproductive goals, give doctors a clearer picture.

A woman aiming for one child might freeze fewer eggs than someone who hopes for two. And lifestyle factors matter too. As Dr Mishra points out, “Weight, nutrition, and stress all influence ovarian response, which is why we encourage holistic preparation before starting treatment.”

<h3>Why <span rel="noindex">Counselling</span> Matters</h3>

Both experts stress the importance of counselling because egg freezing is about managing expectations as much as it is about collecting eggs.

Dr Singh says, “Counselling ensures women understand not just the approximate egg numbers but also the possibility of multiple cycles, costs, and time commitment. Egg freezing does not offer guarantees. What it really offers is choice.”

Dr Mishra agrees: “We want women to approach the process with realistic expectations and a clear plan. With the right guidance, egg freezing becomes a tool for control, not confusion.”

Egg freezing is not a magic wand that guarantees future babies, but it does offer women greater say over their timelines. The number of eggs you need depends on your age, ovarian reserve, and reproductive goals. The number of cycles it may take depends on how your body responds.

What doctors want women to know is, do not see extra cycles or higher egg targets as setbacks. They are just reflections of biology. With the right preparation, information, and mindset, egg freezing is less about uncertainty and more about empowerment.

Health Conditions A-Z

health

fertility

cycles

embryo

ovaries

hormones

pregnancy

counselling

reproduction

timeline

egg freezing

Can Diabetes Drugs Steal Your Vision? Why GLP-1s Are Facing Eye Damage Claims

Why So Many Children Still Grow Up with Preventable Clubfoot

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If modern life had a “pause” button, many women would happily press it on their biological clocks. That is essentially what egg freezing offers: a chance to preserve fertility for the future. But the two questions that inevitably surface are how many eggs should you freeze and how many cycles will it take to get there? The short answer is, it depends. How Many Eggs Are Enough?When it comes to egg freezing, more is not always better, but a certain number is definitely necessary. Dr Navina Singh, fertility specialist at Birla Fertility & IVF, Mumbai, says women in their late twenties or early thirties generally need to freeze around 15 mature eggs to have a fair chance at one live birth. For those beyond the mid-thirties, the number usually goes up to 20 or more. Because as time ticks on, both the number and quality of eggs decline, reducing the likelihood of a healthy embryo developing from each egg.Dr Swati Mishra, another fertility specialist, says, "On average, women in their early thirties are advised to freeze 10–15 mature eggs to maintain good chances of embryo formation later. For women in their late thirties, the target is higher, often 20 or more.” The Cycle Question: One and Done, or More Than One?Many women walk into clinics hoping a single cycle of ovarian stimulation will do the trick. Sometimes it does. But sometimes, biology has other plans.“Some women respond strongly to stimulation and can collect the required number in one attempt,” explains Dr Singh. “Others, especially those with lower ovarian reserve, may need two or even three cycles. This is not a failure; it is simply how ovaries differ in their response.”Dr Mishra adds that this variation is one of the biggest surprises for women: “It is natural biology. We prepare women from the outset that while some will achieve the target in one cycle, others may need more. It all comes down to ovarian reserve and individual response.”In other words, if your ovaries are playing hard to get, patience and persistence are part of the process.Behind the Numbers: How Doctors DecideHow do doctors know how many eggs or cycles a woman might need? Tests like AMH (anti-Müllerian hormone) and antral follicle counts help gauge ovarian reserve. These markers, combined with age and reproductive goals, give doctors a clearer picture.A woman aiming for one child might freeze fewer eggs than someone who hopes for two. And lifestyle factors matter too. As Dr Mishra points out, “Weight, nutrition, and stress all influence ovarian response, which is why we encourage holistic preparation before starting treatment.”Why Counselling MattersBoth experts stress the importance of counselling because egg freezing is about managing expectations as much as it is about collecting eggs.Dr Singh says, “Counselling ensures women understand not just the approximate egg numbers but also the possibility of multiple cycles, costs, and time commitment. Egg freezing does not offer guarantees. What it really offers is choice.”Dr Mishra agrees: “We want women to approach the process with realistic expectations and a clear plan. With the right guidance, egg freezing becomes a tool for control, not confusion.”Egg freezing is not a magic wand that guarantees future babies, but it does offer women greater say over their timelines. The number of eggs you need depends on your age, ovarian reserve, and reproductive goals. The number of cycles it may take depends on how your body responds.What doctors want women to know is, do not see extra cycles or higher egg targets as setbacks. They are just reflections of biology. With the right preparation, information, and mindset, egg freezing is less about uncertainty and more about empowerment.

egg freezing demystified: how many eggs and cycles does it take?

Ozempic

Ozempic Rebound: This Is How Quickly You Could Gain Weight After You Quit Ozempic

ozempic rebound: this is how quickly you could gain weight after you quit ozempic

Fitness

GLP-1 Alone Isn’t The Solution – Why Strength Training Is Key To Healthy Weight Loss Even With Weight Loss Injections

glp-1 alone isn’t the solution – why strength training is key to healthy weight loss even with weight loss injections

How Your Health Could Be Dulling Your Ability To See Colors?

how your health could be dulling your ability to see colors?

Is Skipping Exercise Worse for Diabetes Than Eating Sugar?

is skipping exercise worse for diabetes than eating sugar?

When blockbuster <span>diabetes</span> drugs double as miracle weight-loss injections, it seems like everyone wants in. But now, the same medications are making headlines for possible vision loss.

Originally designed to regulate blood sugar in type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 receptor agonists, which cover <span>Ozempic</span>, <span>Mounjaro</span>, <span>Wegovy</span>, <span>Trulicity</span>, <span>Rybelsus</span> and others, quickly became famous in the weight-loss world. Social media crowned them the “skinny jab”, while pharmaceutical companies rushed out new versions to keep up with demand.

But as prescriptions soared, so did reports of odd side effects. Stomach paralysis (<span>gastroparesis</span>), intestinal blockages and now a rare vision condition are creeping into the conversation. It turns out shedding pounds might come with strings attached, ones that affect more than your waistline.

The latest condition in this story is nonarteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy, or NAION for short. It is a mouthful, but the condition itself is no joke. NAION can blur vision permanently or even lead to <span>blindness</span> by damaging the optic nerve.

Whispers of this link first appeared in mid-2024, when Harvard researchers published a study claiming Ozempic users faced a seven-fold higher risk of NAION compared to non-users. Just weeks later, another paper in JAMA Ophthalmology suggested the concern was not limited to Ozempic; it was likely an issue across the entire GLP-1 family.

Researchers point out that while there is a measurable increase in eye complications, the story isn’t as clear-cut as it sounds.

A recent retrospective study found a slight but significant uptick, about 7 per cent, in new cases of diabetic retinopathy (DR) among GLP-1 users. DR is a common complication of diabetes itself, where blood vessels in the retina become damaged. Interestingly, though, these same patients did not show a higher risk of progressing to severe complications like proliferative retinopathy or diabetic macular oedema.

Reports suggest that patients on GLP-1 drugs should be screened regularly for eye problems, no matter their baseline status. In other words, keep your ophthalmologist on speed dial.

While doctors debate the data, lawyers are already busy. <span>Eli Lilly</span>, maker of Mounjaro and Zepbound, has asked federal judges to consolidate the growing pile of lawsuits into one massive multidistrict litigation (MDL). This would lump together claims of optic nerve damage with the thousands of cases already filed over gastroparesis.

The lawsuits accuse manufacturers of pushing profits over patient safety, alleging that the risks of vision loss were downplayed or overlooked. With more patients joining the legal fray, the story is no longer confined to medical journals; it is unfolding in courtrooms across the US.

For people with type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 drugs remain highly effective. They lower blood sugar, help with weight loss, and even offer some protection against heart disease. For many, the benefits still outweigh the risks.

But the newfound spotlight on NAION is a reminder that no drug is without trade-offs. Those weekly injections may slim waistlines, but they also highlight the need for vigilance. Patients should discuss eye health with their doctors, schedule regular check-ups, and report any sudden changes in vision immediately.

ozempic

mounjaro

wegovy

trulicity

rybelsus

diabetes

obesity

blindness

eli lilly

gastroparesis

When blockbuster diabetes drugs double as miracle weight-loss injections, it seems like everyone wants in. But now, the same medications are making headlines for possible vision loss.The Double Life of GLP-1 DrugsOriginally designed to regulate blood sugar in type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 receptor agonists, which cover Ozempic, Mounjaro, Wegovy, Trulicity, Rybelsus and others, quickly became famous in the weight-loss world. Social media crowned them the “skinny jab”, while pharmaceutical companies rushed out new versions to keep up with demand.But as prescriptions soared, so did reports of odd side effects. Stomach paralysis (gastroparesis), intestinal blockages and now a rare vision condition are creeping into the conversation. It turns out shedding pounds might come with strings attached, ones that affect more than your waistline.A Shadow on the Horizon: NAIONThe latest condition in this story is nonarteritic anterior ischaemic optic neuropathy, or NAION for short. It is a mouthful, but the condition itself is no joke. NAION can blur vision permanently or even lead to blindness by damaging the optic nerve.Whispers of this link first appeared in mid-2024, when Harvard researchers published a study claiming Ozempic users faced a seven-fold higher risk of NAION compared to non-users. Just weeks later, another paper in JAMA Ophthalmology suggested the concern was not limited to Ozempic; it was likely an issue across the entire GLP-1 family.What the Experts Are SayingResearchers point out that while there is a measurable increase in eye complications, the story isn’t as clear-cut as it sounds.A recent retrospective study found a slight but significant uptick, about 7 per cent, in new cases of diabetic retinopathy (DR) among GLP-1 users. DR is a common complication of diabetes itself, where blood vessels in the retina become damaged. Interestingly, though, these same patients did not show a higher risk of progressing to severe complications like proliferative retinopathy or diabetic macular oedema.Reports suggest that patients on GLP-1 drugs should be screened regularly for eye problems, no matter their baseline status. In other words, keep your ophthalmologist on speed dial.From Courtrooms to ClinicsWhile doctors debate the data, lawyers are already busy. Eli Lilly, maker of Mounjaro and Zepbound, has asked federal judges to consolidate the growing pile of lawsuits into one massive multidistrict litigation (MDL). This would lump together claims of optic nerve damage with the thousands of cases already filed over gastroparesis.The lawsuits accuse manufacturers of pushing profits over patient safety, alleging that the risks of vision loss were downplayed or overlooked. With more patients joining the legal fray, the story is no longer confined to medical journals; it is unfolding in courtrooms across the US.The Balancing Act for PatientsFor people with type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 drugs remain highly effective. They lower blood sugar, help with weight loss, and even offer some protection against heart disease. For many, the benefits still outweigh the risks.But the newfound spotlight on NAION is a reminder that no drug is without trade-offs. Those weekly injections may slim waistlines, but they also highlight the need for vigilance. Patients should discuss eye health with their doctors, schedule regular check-ups, and report any sudden changes in vision immediately.

can diabetes drugs steal your vision? why glp-1s are facing eye damage claims

Clubfoot

Health News

Nearly 7 In 10 US Women Under 50 Have Modifiable Risk Factors For Birth Defects, CDC Reveals

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Monsoon Stomach Flu: Why Seasonal Gastroenteritis Hits Harder In Rainy Months?

monsoon stomach flu: why seasonal gastroenteritis hits harder in rainy months?

Why Placenta Banking Is Being Called the Ultimate Health Insurance for Families

why placenta banking is being called the ultimate health insurance for families

UK Children To Get Chickenpox Vaccine On NHS: Why It Is A Lifesaver Vaccine

uk children to get chickenpox vaccine on nhs: why it is a lifesaver vaccine

If you’ve ever seen a baby’s tiny foot curled awkwardly inwards and downwards, you might dismiss it as “just the way they’re born.” But that little twist, called <span>clubfoot</span>, is no small matter. Left untreated, it can turn into a lifelong <span>disability</span>. And in India, where over 70% of cases in rural areas go untreated, clubfoot remains one of the most common yet most overlooked childhood deformities.

Clubfoot is a congenital condition where one or both feet are turned inwards and downwards, making it difficult for the child to walk normally. “Clubfoot may look like a simple <span>deformity</span> at birth, but when not addressed in time, it becomes a rigid, disabling condition,” explained Dr Aashish Chaudhry, Orthopaedic Surgeon at Aakash <span>Healthcare</span>.

India sees roughly 1 in every 300 <span>children</span> born with a bone deformity, according to the Indian Orthopaedic Association, and clubfoot leads the list. Yet, <span>awareness</span> remains staggeringly low. Families often think the foot will straighten on its own or that <span>treatment</span> is too costly, so the condition is neglected. Children who should be running and playing instead limp through life, sometimes in pain and often with a heavy emotional burden.

Unlike countries such as China, Uganda, and Malawi that have national clubfoot programmes, India still does not have a dedicated public health plan. This gap leaves thousands of children untreated every year. “Children with neglected clubfoot often face pain, difficulty walking, and emotional distress. They may get bullied in school and develop poor self-esteem, which impacts their overall development,” said Dr Chaudhry, who himself grew up with the condition before becoming an orthopaedic surgeon.

The neglect is not just physical; it’s social. In communities where disability already carries stigma, children with clubfoot often become isolated, missing out on school and normal childhood experiences.

The irony is that treating clubfoot early is neither complicated nor expensive. The most widely used method is the Ponseti technique, which involves gentle manipulation of the foot, followed by a series of plaster casts and then bracing. “This method has a high success rate when started early, usually within the first few weeks after birth,” explained Dr Chaudhry.

<span>Parents</span> often believe treatment means <span>surgery</span>, but that’s not the case when intervention happens early. “Timely diagnosis and intervention can prevent the need for complex surgeries later and greatly improve outcomes,” he added.

But what about children whose clubfoot is neglected? Is it too late for them? Dr Chaudhry said, “Even in neglected cases, it is absolutely possible to correct the deformity with modern surgical techniques. Surgery, followed by proper <span>physiotherapy</span> and braces, can help the child walk normally again. The earlier the intervention, the easier the recovery but it's never too late to act.”

This is a crucial message for parents who assume that once their child starts walking with difficulty, nothing can be done. The truth is, whether it’s casting or surgery, medical science today offers hope.

Doctors recommend that all newborns undergo simple foot checks as part of routine postnatal screening. Parents should also be vigilant: if a baby’s feet appear turned inwards or if the child struggles when learning to stand or walk, medical advice should be sought immediately. Delay only makes matters worse.

“Many parents wait, thinking the child will outgrow the twisted foot. But delay in treatment often makes it worse,” said Dr Chaudhry.

Ultimately, the solution lies not only in treatment but also in awareness and policy. With a dedicated national programme, better newborn screening, and parent education, India can turn the tide. As Dr Chaudhry put it: “Clubfoot is a treatable condition. With awareness, early action, and the right care, we can ensure that no child has to grow up with a disability that could have been prevented.”

clubfoot

children

disability

deformity

awareness

treatment

surgery

physiotherapy

healthcare

parents

If you’ve ever seen a baby’s tiny foot curled awkwardly inwards and downwards, you might dismiss it as “just the way they’re born.” But that little twist, called clubfoot, is no small matter. Left untreated, it can turn into a lifelong disability. And in India, where over 70% of cases in rural areas go untreated, clubfoot remains one of the most common yet most overlooked childhood deformities.The Twist at BirthClubfoot is a congenital condition where one or both feet are turned inwards and downwards, making it difficult for the child to walk normally. “Clubfoot may look like a simple deformity at birth, but when not addressed in time, it becomes a rigid, disabling condition,” explained Dr Aashish Chaudhry, Orthopaedic Surgeon at Aakash Healthcare.India sees roughly 1 in every 300 children born with a bone deformity, according to the Indian Orthopaedic Association, and clubfoot leads the list. Yet, awareness remains staggeringly low. Families often think the foot will straighten on its own or that treatment is too costly, so the condition is neglected. Children who should be running and playing instead limp through life, sometimes in pain and often with a heavy emotional burden.Why India Lags BehindUnlike countries such as China, Uganda, and Malawi that have national clubfoot programmes, India still does not have a dedicated public health plan. This gap leaves thousands of children untreated every year. “Children with neglected clubfoot often face pain, difficulty walking, and emotional distress. They may get bullied in school and develop poor self-esteem, which impacts their overall development,” said Dr Chaudhry, who himself grew up with the condition before becoming an orthopaedic surgeon.The neglect is not just physical; it’s social. In communities where disability already carries stigma, children with clubfoot often become isolated, missing out on school and normal childhood experiences.Early Treatment Is Possible The irony is that treating clubfoot early is neither complicated nor expensive. The most widely used method is the Ponseti technique, which involves gentle manipulation of the foot, followed by a series of plaster casts and then bracing. “This method has a high success rate when started early, usually within the first few weeks after birth,” explained Dr Chaudhry.Parents often believe treatment means surgery, but that’s not the case when intervention happens early. “Timely diagnosis and intervention can prevent the need for complex surgeries later and greatly improve outcomes,” he added.When Treatment Is DelayedBut what about children whose clubfoot is neglected? Is it too late for them? Dr Chaudhry said, “Even in neglected cases, it is absolutely possible to correct the deformity with modern surgical techniques. Surgery, followed by proper physiotherapy and braces, can help the child walk normally again. The earlier the intervention, the easier the recovery but it's never too late to act.”This is a crucial message for parents who assume that once their child starts walking with difficulty, nothing can be done. The truth is, whether it’s casting or surgery, medical science today offers hope.Spotting It EarlyDoctors recommend that all newborns undergo simple foot checks as part of routine postnatal screening. Parents should also be vigilant: if a baby’s feet appear turned inwards or if the child struggles when learning to stand or walk, medical advice should be sought immediately. Delay only makes matters worse.“Many parents wait, thinking the child will outgrow the twisted foot. But delay in treatment often makes it worse,” said Dr Chaudhry.Changing the StoryUltimately, the solution lies not only in treatment but also in awareness and policy. With a dedicated national programme, better newborn screening, and parent education, India can turn the tide. As Dr Chaudhry put it: “Clubfoot is a treatable condition. With awareness, early action, and the right care, we can ensure that no child has to grow up with a disability that could have been prevented.”

why so many children still grow up with preventable clubfoot

Placenta Preservation

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fox news anchor john roberts diagnosed with malaria – how to identify the first symptom

This Common Lifestyle Disease Could Be Increasing Your Risk Of Aggressive Breast Cancer: Study

this common lifestyle disease could be increasing your risk of aggressive breast cancer: study

A Simple Blood Test Could Detect Signs Of Ovarian Cancer

a simple blood test could detect signs of ovarian cancer

If you thought the only souvenirs from childbirth were baby pictures and tiny socks, times have changed. Turns out, the real treasure might be something most parents never even glance at before it is thrown away: the placenta and umbilical cord. Doctors are now calling <span>placenta banking</span> “biological insurance”, and the idea is picking up pace.

<h3>Your Baby’s Placenta Is More Than Just Leftovers</h3>

For centuries, the placenta has been treated as medical waste. But according to Dr. D.B. Usha Rajinikanthan, Senior Consultant in Gynaecology and IVF at SIMS Hospital, Chennai, this organ is brimming with <span>stem cells</span> that could be life-saving later on. 

“Placenta and <span>cord blood</span> contain stem cells that can repair or replace damaged tissue. Collecting them at birth is safe and painless, but once discarded, that opportunity is lost forever,” she says.

These tiny cells are essentially the body’s master builders, with the potential to transform into different blood and immune cells. Which means what is usually thrown in a bin could actually hold a family’s medical safety net.

Stem cells from the placenta are not just versatile; they are generous. Dr. Rajinikanthan explains that they have already been used to treat more than 80 <span>diseases</span> worldwide, including leukaemia, certain immune deficiencies and metabolic disorders. “Research is expanding into conditions like heart repair, brain injury and even diabetes,” she adds.

Placental stem cells are “younger” and more flexible, making them easier to match with siblings and relatives. In simple terms, the baby, siblings, parents and even grandparents may stand to benefit. It is not just your child’s resource; it is potentially a family heirloom.

<h3><span rel="noindex">Placenta Preservation</span>: A Health Insurance</h3>

If we insure our cars and houses against accidents, why not our health? Placenta banking works on that philosophy. “It is a one-time investment in future health security. Families may never need it, but having stored stem cells gives enormous peace of mind,” says Dr. Rajinikanthan. She emphasises, though, that choosing an accredited stem cell bank that follows quality standards is essential.

<h3>How Does Amniotic Membrane Help?</h3>

Beyond the cord blood, there is another underrated star, the amniotic membrane. Dr. A. Jaishree Gajaraj, Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at MGM Healthcare, Chennai, explains that the <span>amnion</span> has been saving lives for over a century. “The first use dates back to 1910 when it was applied as a skin graft to promote healing. Today, it is used in ophthalmology for dry eyes, as well as for burns and diabetic ulcers,” she says.

In other words, this part of the placenta is not just a wrapper for your baby; it is a medical toolkit waiting to be tapped.

Stem cell science has moved leaps and bounds in recent decades. According to Dr. Gajaraj, the umbilical cord blood and tissue have already been used successfully in bone marrow transplants for children with leukaemia and other bone marrow disorders. But the real buzz is around their future potential.

“These pluripotent cells are being researched for regenerating organs like the pancreas, liver, lungs and even the spinal cord. While still experimental, the promise is extraordinary,” she explains.

She adds that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), particularly those derived from cord tissue, are showing the greatest promise in regenerative therapies. “Foetal MSCs from cord tissue expand better, are less likely to trigger immune rejection, and have higher therapeutic potential than their maternal counterparts,” says Dr. Gajaraj. Simply put, storing placenta and cord tissue maximises the number and types of cells available for future therapies.

<h3>But What About Delayed Cord Clamping?</h3>

Some parents worry that opting for placenta banking might compromise delayed cord clamping, the practice of waiting a few minutes before cutting the cord to allow extra blood flow to the baby. Dr. Gajaraj reassures that this is not the case. “Delayed clamping does not reduce the yield of mesenchymal stem cells. Parents can safely choose both practices,” she says.

<h3>A Gift From Your Newborn to the Whole Family</h3>

Placenta banking is not a crystal ball or a cure-all. It does not guarantee immunity against every illness. But as both doctors point out, it offers a shot at future treatments that could transform outcomes in life-threatening conditions

placenta preservation

placenta banking

amnion

therapy

diseases

transplant

medicine

stem cells

biological insurance

cord blood

If you thought the only souvenirs from childbirth were baby pictures and tiny socks, times have changed. Turns out, the real treasure might be something most parents never even glance at before it is thrown away: the placenta and umbilical cord. Doctors are now calling placenta banking “biological insurance”, and the idea is picking up pace.Your Baby’s Placenta Is More Than Just LeftoversFor centuries, the placenta has been treated as medical waste. But according to Dr. D.B. Usha Rajinikanthan, Senior Consultant in Gynaecology and IVF at SIMS Hospital, Chennai, this organ is brimming with stem cells that could be life-saving later on. “Placenta and cord blood contain stem cells that can repair or replace damaged tissue. Collecting them at birth is safe and painless, but once discarded, that opportunity is lost forever,” she says.These tiny cells are essentially the body’s master builders, with the potential to transform into different blood and immune cells. Which means what is usually thrown in a bin could actually hold a family’s medical safety net.Why Stem Cells Are a Big DealStem cells from the placenta are not just versatile; they are generous. Dr. Rajinikanthan explains that they have already been used to treat more than 80 diseases worldwide, including leukaemia, certain immune deficiencies and metabolic disorders. “Research is expanding into conditions like heart repair, brain injury and even diabetes,” she adds.Placental stem cells are “younger” and more flexible, making them easier to match with siblings and relatives. In simple terms, the baby, siblings, parents and even grandparents may stand to benefit. It is not just your child’s resource; it is potentially a family heirloom.Placenta Preservation: A Health InsuranceIf we insure our cars and houses against accidents, why not our health? Placenta banking works on that philosophy. “It is a one-time investment in future health security. Families may never need it, but having stored stem cells gives enormous peace of mind,” says Dr. Rajinikanthan. She emphasises, though, that choosing an accredited stem cell bank that follows quality standards is essential.How Does Amniotic Membrane Help?Beyond the cord blood, there is another underrated star, the amniotic membrane. Dr. A. Jaishree Gajaraj, Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at MGM Healthcare, Chennai, explains that the amnion has been saving lives for over a century. “The first use dates back to 1910 when it was applied as a skin graft to promote healing. Today, it is used in ophthalmology for dry eyes, as well as for burns and diabetic ulcers,” she says.In other words, this part of the placenta is not just a wrapper for your baby; it is a medical toolkit waiting to be tapped.The Science Behind the PromiseStem cell science has moved leaps and bounds in recent decades. According to Dr. Gajaraj, the umbilical cord blood and tissue have already been used successfully in bone marrow transplants for children with leukaemia and other bone marrow disorders. But the real buzz is around their future potential.“These pluripotent cells are being researched for regenerating organs like the pancreas, liver, lungs and even the spinal cord. While still experimental, the promise is extraordinary,” she explains.She adds that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), particularly those derived from cord tissue, are showing the greatest promise in regenerative therapies. “Foetal MSCs from cord tissue expand better, are less likely to trigger immune rejection, and have higher therapeutic potential than their maternal counterparts,” says Dr. Gajaraj. Simply put, storing placenta and cord tissue maximises the number and types of cells available for future therapies.But What About Delayed Cord Clamping?Some parents worry that opting for placenta banking might compromise delayed cord clamping, the practice of waiting a few minutes before cutting the cord to allow extra blood flow to the baby. Dr. Gajaraj reassures that this is not the case. “Delayed clamping does not reduce the yield of mesenchymal stem cells. Parents can safely choose both practices,” she says.A Gift From Your Newborn to the Whole FamilyPlacenta banking is not a crystal ball or a cure-all. It does not guarantee immunity against every illness. But as both doctors point out, it offers a shot at future treatments that could transform outcomes in life-threatening conditions

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Egg Freezing Demystified: How Many Eggs and Cycles Does It Take?

Quick Stories

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Health Conditions A-Z

Can Diabetes Drugs Steal Your Vision? Why GLP-1s Are Facing Eye Damage Claims

Egg Freezing Demystified: How Many Eggs and Cycles Does It Take?

Why So Many Children Still Grow Up with Preventable Clubfoot