Does it hurt to donate?
Will it make me sick, or will I feel faint?
May I change my mind?
Will I have to limit my activities after donating?
How much blood do I give?
How do I know if I can give blood?
What if I have high or low blood pressure?
Will I become anemic after donating?
If something is wrong with my blood, will I be notified?
How long does it take to donate?
Should I eat before I donate?
Will I find out my blood type?
How often may I donate?
Does it hurt to donate?
When the needle is inserted, the feeling is similar to a mild pinch. You might pinch the skin at your elbow joint to see how the needle will feel.
Will it make me sick, or will I feel faint?
Reactions rarely occur and are usually minor. The best way to avoid problems is to remain calm and understand the donor procedure. Be sure that you've eaten before you donate.
May I change my mind?
Yes, you may.
Will I have to limit my activities after donating?
Not really, although you will be requested not to lift anything heavy with your donation arm for four hours and to refrain from strenuous exercise for 12 hours.
How much blood do I give?
A donation is approximately one pint. The average person has about 10 - 12 pints.
How do I know if I can give blood?
Most people may donate if they are 17 years old and weigh more than 110 lbs. If you have any questions, please contact LifeShare at 1-888-543-3742.
What if I have high or low blood pressure?
Blood pressure will be checked by the phlebotomist prior to your donation. People whose blood pressure is in the normal range may donate.
Will I become anemic after donating?
No, the body begins replenishing the lost fluid and red cells immediately.
If something is wrong with my blood, will I be notified?
You would be notified confidentially if there are any problems found.
How long does it take to donate?
Although the whole process from start to finish takes between 30 - 45 minutes, the actual donation takes only about 10 - 12 minutes.
Should I eat before I donate?
Yes, it is important that you eat within four hours before donating.
Will I find out my blood type?
An identification card bearing the blood type is sent to your home within about six weeks after donating.
How often may I donate?
Every eight weeks or 56 days. Pheresis donors may donate every two weeks.