ANN ARBOR (WWJ) - Some Michigan moms and their newborns are helping others heal through a first of its kind program: Placenta donation.
The placenta helps nourish the baby through pregnancy and is often discarded after birth. Now, St. Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor Hospital and Gift of Life Michigan have teamed up to offer placenta donation.
Becky Kanak, a registered nurse with the hospital, says the rich nutrients and healing properties of the placenta can help others. It is most often used to heal traumatic wounds and diabetic ulcers – typically situations where there isn't enough skin to close a wound.
"They also utilize them for gum and eye surgeries," Kanak said.
Expectant mothers with a planned cesarean section at the hospital can take part in the program by asking their doctor. The child’s birth is in no way affected, and there is no risk to the mother or the baby.
The baby's umbilical cord and placenta can be donated. The placenta technically belongs to the baby, making him or her the donor.
Since the program started in the summer, 13 placentas have been donated.
St. Joseph Mercy Ann Arbor is the only hospital in the state offering placenta donation through Gift of Life Michigan, but the program likely will expand to other Michigan hospitals.
For more information on the program, visit stjoeshealth.org.