To donate plasma, you generally need to meet the following requirements:
- Be in good health and feeling well.
- Be between 18 and 74 years old (some centers allow 16 or 17 with parental consent).
- Weigh at least 110 pounds (about 50 kilograms).
- Pass a medical screening including a physical exam and medical history review.
- Test negative for viruses transmissible through blood, such as HIV and hepatitis.
- Have no recent tattoos or piercings (usually within the last 4 months).
- Provide valid identification (such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID).
- Provide proof of Social Security number or equivalent.
- Provide proof of current address if not listed on your ID.
- Meet minimum hemoglobin levels (12.5 g/dL for females, 13.0 g/dL for males).
- Not be in a high-risk group for transmissible diseases or have disqualifying medical conditions.
- Avoid donating if recently had surgery, blood transfusions, or certain other temporary deferrals apply.
Additional preparation tips include:
- Eat a healthy, protein- and iron-rich diet before donation.
- Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Get a good night's sleep before donating.
- Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that can be rolled up above the elbow.
The plasma donation process involves:
- Cannulating a vein in one arm.
- Collecting blood and separating plasma via a machine.
- Returning blood cells back to your body.
- The donation typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
You can donate plasma every 28 days, up to 13 times per year in the U.S., or every 14 days up to 26 times per year in some other countries
