Donating blood is a simple yet powerful way to make a difference in the lives of many patients as well as the lives of their families. Whether you’re a first- time donor or want to donate again, it’s natural to have questions, especially if something in your life has changed. These FAQ’s will help to address common questions about blood donation so that you can feel informed and ready when you donate your life-saving unit of blood.
Why do I have to complete the questionnaire every time I donate blood?
Filling in the questionnaire before donating blood allows us to gauge whether you are healthy enough to donate blood on the day and indicates whether your blood is safe for a patient to receive.
How often can I donate blood?
You may donate blood every 56 days (approximately every 2 months)
Should I eat and drink before donating blood?
Yes, it is advisable to eat within the 3 to 4 hours before donating and increase your fluid intake before and after donation.
Can I donate if I have a tattoo or piercing?
Yes, as long as it has been 3 months since your last tattoo or piercing.
Can I donate while pregnant?
No. Pregnant or nursing mothers should not give blood until 3 months after birth or 1 month after stopping exclusive breastfeeding.
Can I exercise after donating blood?
Light exercise is fine after donating, but wait 24 hours before participating in strenuous activities.
Can I donate if I am diabetic and taking medication for diabetes?
You may donate blood if you have diabetes and are on medication provided your sugar levels are controlled.
Can I donate if I am on medication for high blood pressure?
You may donate provided your blood pressure is within the normal range on the day, and if on hypertension medication, you have been taking it for at least 1 month. The nurse at the clinic will check your blood pressure before donating.
Can I donate if I take thyroid medication?
If you take medication for hypothyroidism, that is fine; if you take medication for hyperthyroidism, it will depend on the medication prescribed. Speak to the nurse at the clinic regarding your medication.
Can I donate blood if I take antidepressants?
Yes, you may donate blood while taking antidepressants. Please let the nurse at the clinic know what medication you are taking.
Will you test my iron level at the blood donation clinic?
We will measure your haemoglobin levels at the blood donation clinic using a simple finger prick test. Haemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. A minimum haemoglobin level is required to ensure the donor has sufficient red blood cells to spare for donation. Ladies need a minimum reading of 12.5 g/dL and men need a minimum of 13.5 g/dL. Ferritin is a protein that binds and stores iron in the body and releases it when needed. It is mainly found in the liver and immune system. WCBS will routinely test your ferritin levels. This is done the first time you donate and after every fourth donation thereafter to make sure we are not depleting your iron stores. This test is done in our laboratory.
When will I know my blood type?
After your first donation, you can register your donor profile on the WCBS App, where you can see your donation details, including your blood group. It may take up to 48 hours for your updated details to appear on the App.
What is the WCBS policy regarding malaria and malaria areas?
You must wait 4 weeks after leaving a malaria area before donating blood. If you are diagnosed with malaria, you will not be able to donate blood for 3 years from the time of completing treatment and recovery.
If you grew up in a malaria-endemic country or area, you will not be able to donate blood for 3 years after leaving your home country. If you travel back to your home country or a malaria-endemic area, you will have to wait 3 years from the time of leaving the area. However, you may donate plasma if you have been in a malaria-endemic area as the plasma processing steps effectively eliminate the risk of transmitting the parasite. Plasma can be donated at any of our fixed site clinics. To make an appointment, please WhatsApp 0605497244.
Can I fly after donating blood?
You will need to wait 24 hours before taking an international flight. This is because of the risk of a delayed faint.
Can I donate blood if I use cannabis?
Yes, you may donate blood, however you should not be under the influence of any drugs or alcohol at the time of donation.
Armed with your new-found knowledge and the answers to some of your burning questions, you are now better equipped to donate your live-saving unit of blood. If you have any other questions about blood donation please email us at info@wcbs.org.za or send us a WhatsApp on 0605497244. We look forward to welcoming you to one of our many blood donation clinics around the Western Cape.
