Blood Donor Services - University Hospital

There are a number of reasons why some individuals may not be permitted to give blood. Here are the most common: Medical conditions that can temporarily or even permanently keep a person from giving blood include: Low iron (hemoglobin) level; Respiratory infection, cough, sore throat or cold/flu; Diarrhea or abdominal pain; Certain medications; Pregnancy. Travel to countries where malaria has been regularly found.

No. Donors cannot spread the disease through a blood donation. However, we do ask that donors are feeling healthy when they arrive for their scheduled appointment.

Having a low iron count is the top reason people cannot donate blood. Iron is part of a protein in your body that carries oxygen to your tissues. Your body needs iron to help maintain strength and energy. Donating blood depletes your body of iron, so if your iron level is already too low, you should not give blood.

Women should get about 18 mg of iron a day, and men should get about 8 mg a day. Certain foods can help increase your iron level. These foods include: Grains: oats, quinoa, tortillas; Meat: liver, oysters, mussels, beef, some pork products, fish, chicken; Non-meat protein: eggs, refried beans, nuts, peanut butter, green peas; Fruit: prunes, dried apricots; Juices: prune juice, tomato juice; Vegetables: dark leafy greens, such as spinach, kale or collards. If you are unable to include more iron-rich foods in your diet, check with your physician about taking an iron supplement.

Yes, you must weigh at least 115 lbs. and be at least 17 years of age. Review our height and weight standards guide to see if you qualify.

Donating whole blood takes about 30 minutes total, and the actual donation takes 8-10 minutes. Platelet donation can take up to two hours, from start to finish. The donation itself usually takes 45-60 minutes.

Eat! We recommend eating within three hours before you plan to donate to minimize the risk of not feeling well after donation.

Whole blood donors are eligible to give blood every eight weeks. Platelet donors can give platelets every two weeks, up to 24 times a year. We encourage you to become a regular donor — our patients need you!

No. Do not stop taking medications prescribed by your doctor. However, donating while taking certain drugs could have a negative effect on your health or on the health of the recipient of your blood. Consult the medication and drug deferral list for more details.

Whole blood is made up of several components: red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets and plasma. We separate blood into its components when a donor gives blood. Red blood cells: These are round cells that deliver oxygen to all of your tissues. They also take carbon dioxide back to your lungs to be exhaled. Each unit of red blood cells can be stored, refrigerated, for a maximum of 42 days. White blood cells: These are part of the immune system, acting as the body’s primary defense against illness and disease. White blood cells produce antibodies to protect you from harmful bacteria, viruses and other foreign invaders. Platelets: These are cell fragments that begin the clotting process when you bleed. Platelets are important in the control of bleeding and are often used in patients with leukemia and other forms of cancer. Platelets are stored at room temperature for a maximum of five days. Plasma: This carries other blood cells, water, nutrients, enzymes, hormones, antibodies and complex proteins throughout your body. It is also essential in helping your blood clot. Plasma can be stored frozen for up to one year.