Can You Give Blood On Your Period? Here’s What The Experts Say

Blood donation is a very significant way of helping our fellow humans. We recommend everyone eligible to donate blood as and when possible. Having said that, we realize there can be many concerns and questions regarding blood donation, especially if you are on your period. Is it safe? Is it allowed? All of these questions can be quite daunting. This is why we decided to help you. In this guide, we shall solve your queries related to blood donation during your period.

Can You Give Blood On Your Period?

Yes, it is safe to give blood on your period, but there are precautions that you must take. This is because blood loss, in any form, causes weakness, and you may also fall ill for a short time. Iron depletes even when you lose blood through menstruation. Thus, if you tend to get heavy periods, we recommend that you wait before donating your blood. Otherwise, there’s absolutely nothing wrong to give blood while menstruating.

A few other factors to consider are:

• If you are taking prescribed medication for period pain or to regulate periods, you should consult the doctor.
• If you have undergone tests and are waiting for results, it would be best to take a call after the results come in.
• If you have had a transfusion previously, you will not be able to donate blood at any time.
• You must be fit and healthy. Underweight individuals cannot give blood.
• You should be at least 17 years old.

Things to Remember before Donating Blood

You will donate around 470 ml of blood in one go. That’s quite a lot of blood loss. That’s why you should make sure you eat well and get adequate rest before you head out. Your blood sugar levels must be normal.

Pro tip: Eat iron-rich foods and drink plenty of water.

Also, you must avoid consuming alcohol before and on the day you donate blood. This is because it delays recovery.

Lastly, avoid any intense activities and exercises before and immediately after giving blood. The goal is to stay relaxed and healthy and to give your body enough time to recuperate.

Things to Remember after Donating Blood

While some people may find it okay to continue with their daily chores or work after donating blood, we advise otherwise. Take rest at least until the weakness passes.

If you experience dizziness, nausea, or sweating, please note that it is normal to feel this way. Just lie down immediately. Drink water or any other energizing fluids.

The doctor will give you advice as well. Just follow the suggestions, and you will do just fine.

We commend you on your interest in donating blood. It is a great service to mankind. Please rest assured that unless you are pregnant, on prescription medication, or going through IVF treatment, you can easily donate blood. Being on your period is not a concern at all unless you bleed heavily. If you are still concerned, please speak to your doctor. He/she will help you out and give you helpful information as well. All the best!