Donating Whole Blood

The major source of blood and blood components in the United States comes from allogeneic or volunteer whole blood donors. These donors freely give blood to the blood center for use by patients. Whole blood donors may donate one unit of whole blood every 56 days.

Being a whole blood donor is safe, simple, and very fulfilling. You can help as many as three different patients with just one donation. The entire whole blood donation process takes between 30 and 45 minutes. Blood cannot be manufactured. Individuals who give blood assure an adequate supply is available - possibly saving someone’s life. Your donation is definitely needed!

Criteria for Donating Whole Blood

Questions About Eligibility
Some health conditions or medications may temporarily or permanently prevent a person from donating blood. Be sure to bring the name(s) of the medication(s) you are taking.

If you have a question regarding your eligibility to donate and would like to discuss it, please contact the center nearest you.

Medical Conditions

AIDS-individuals at high risk and their partners Cannot donate
Colds and flu Can donate 3 days after symptoms subside.
Diabetes, on medication (controlled) Can donate
Hepatitis and jaundice on or after 11th birthday. Cannot donate
Pregnancy, after delivery, miscarriage, abortion Six week wait
Menstruation Can donate
Note:  People who have had cancer should contact the center to determine eligibility.

Medical Procedures

Surgery, without transfusion, after release by physician Can donate
Surgery, with transfusion of blood or blood components 1-year wait

Medications

Antibiotics, oral 72-hrs from last dose
Antibiotics, injectable 14-day wait
Allergy Medications, Diuretics, Diet Pills, Sleeping Pills, Tranquilizers, Aspirin, Tylenol Can donate
Blood Pressure Medications Can donate

Vaccinations

Measles, Mumps, Rubella 4-week wait
Flu Can donate
Hepatitis B 14-day wait

Other Possible Restrictions

Ear Piercing, professionally done 3-day wait, no infection
Body Piercing 3-week wait, licensed facility, no infection
Tattooing 3-week wait, licensed facility, no infection

Travel Outside the United States or Canada
If you have traveled outside the United States or Canada in the last 3 years you may have traveled to an area where malaria is considered endemic. Malaria may be transmitted through blood transfusion. Acceptance or deferral is based on the Malaria Risk Countries defined by the Centers for Disease Control. Contact LifeShare Blood Centers regarding your eligibility based on the area(s) of travel.

You Cannot Get AIDS from Donating Blood
Only sterile, disposable equipment is used throughout the donation process, which makes it impossible to contract a disease from donating blood.

Problems After Donating
If you have any questions concerning your donation, or experience any unexpected problems, please call the LifeShare donor center nearest you.

How Can I Become a Blood Donor?
Contact your nearest LifeShare location to schedule your donation today.

   LifeShare Donor Centers