Blood Donation Waiting Times: What You Need to Know

The government requires specific waiting periods in between blood donations. These are due to conditions in normal blood replenishment and the donor health.

Function

• The body has to replenish its blood supply. Bone marrow creates stem cells which divide and multiply into red blood cells, white blood cells and platelets.

Time Frame

• According to the American Red Cross, you can donate whole blood every 56 days, meaning you can donate up to six times a year.

Types

• According to the Department of Health and Human Services, plasma and platelet donors can donate more frequently and only have a three day waiting period, as they lose a less significant amount of red blood cells in their specific extraction methods. Donating units of red blood cells, on the other hand, requires an extended waiting period.

Considerations

• Blood donors are required to pass a mini-physical. If you fail the mini-physical, due to a low iron level in your blood for example, you will have to wait longer than a healthy donor.

Effects

• According to a study at the University College Dublin, blood donors are not satisfied with waiting times, but this does not hamper their desire to donate in the future.