Answers to your Frequently Asked Questions

What happens to my birth tissue if I don’t donate?
Unless your doctor requests or requires additional testing of the birth tissue, it will be discarded as medical waste.

What tests are run on my blood, and will I get the results?
Your blood will be tested for infectious diseases including HIV, Hepatitis B and C, and Syphilis. If any results are reportable per public health standards, your doctor will be notified and provide further follow-up with you.

Will I know who receives transplants from my birth tissue?
Much like other forms of tissue donation, the gift of birth tissue donation is given anonymously to protect the privacy of all parties involved.

Is there any risk to me or my baby?
Not at all. Your birth tissue will be removed in the same way and at the same time (after your baby is delivered) as it would if it were not being donated. There is no additional procedure involved for the donation of your birth tissue.

Will there be any additional costs if I donate?
Absolutely not. The minimal supplies needed for recovery and transportation of your birth tissue are covered by Tennessee Donor Services.

How will you obtain my birth tissue after delivery?
The birth tissue is removed through the same surgical incision used for your C-section. After your baby is born, your health care providers will recover the birth tissue and pass it to our specially-trained staff to be prepared for transport.