Donating Blood: Common Myths Debunked

Blood donations save lives, and the need for blood has never been greater. Every two seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood or platelets, says the American Red Cross.

More people, more illness, even more natural disasters around the world mean we need more blood to save lives. The need is always there.

But only 3 percent of Americans donate blood. 

Common Myths About Donating Blood

Some of the reasons that might keep people from donating blood are not true. Here are seven common blood donation myths, according to the American Red Cross, and why they’re untrue:

Myth 1 — It takes a long time: The time it takes varies. It often takes an hour or less. The actual blood donation takes about 10 minutes. Before your donation, you’ll also spend a few minutes filling out a form verifying who you are and answering questions about your health and travels. Then you’ll go through a brief exam to make sure you’re qualified to give blood. At some blood drives, you might also spend some time waiting to donate. But you don’t have to donate at a blood drive. Many areas have their own blood donation centers. You can ask about less busy times to come in for your donation.

Myth 2 — I’m too old: There is no upper age limit for donating as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. 

Myth 3 — I can only give blood once a year: Your body restores the plasma it lost from donation within 24 hours. Red blood cells take about four to six weeks to completely replenish. That’s why the rule is to wait at least 56 days between donations.

Myth 4 — I have a tattoo, so I can’t donate: In most states, you can donate right after getting a tattoo if the shop is regulated by the state. If not, you must wait three months.

Myth 5 — I have high blood pressure, so I can’t donate: You can donate if your blood pressure is 180 or lower systolic (top number) and 100 or below diastolic (bottom number). When you go to donate, your blood pressure will be taken as part of the physical exam to see if you’re eligible.

Myth 6 — I can’t donate if my iron level is low: Sometimes this is true and sometimes not. Iron is part of what makes up hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to your blood. If your hemoglobin is too low, you might faint or feel ill from giving blood. Most blood donation centers check your hemoglobin before you donate. They’ll let you know if it is safe for you to donate that day.

Myth 7 — My blood type isn’t rare, so my donation isn’t needed: All blood types are always needed. Some rare blood types,  such as O negative, are in even higher demand because they are universal donor types. That means they can be given to people with any blood type.

Donating Blood: What to Do Before and After

If you’re thinking about donating blood, there are a few things you can do to get ready. 

Before You Donate
Find a blood drive or donation center near you and make an appointment. Some cities have blood donation organizations that accept donations all the time. And many larger hospitals and medical centers have their own blood donation centers. You can also search for a blood drive  through the American Red Cross.   

Add iron and vitamin C to your diet: Before you give blood, it’s a great idea to eat iron-rich foods such as spinach, beans, red meat, fish and poultry. This will help keep your hemoglobin counts in range and your body energized. Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron. So eating foods rich in vitamin C such as citrus fruits, pineapples, mangoes and Brussels sprouts, is also a good plan. On the day of your donation, stay away from fatty foods like hamburgers, fries or ice cream.

Hydrate and be well rested: Get a good night’s sleep, eat healthy and drink extra fluids before you give blood. On the day of donation, drink an extra 16 oz. of water before your appointment.

After You Donate
Take a break: Take 10 to 15 minutes after you donate to relax and eat a snack and have a drink before going back to your routine. After your break, stand up slowly in case you’re a little dizzy.

Hydrate more: Keep drinking water and try to avoid alcohol for the next 24 hours.

Avoid strenuous activity: No heavy lifting or vigorous exercise for the rest of the day.

Are You Eligible to Donate Blood?

The American Red Cross has initiated a pre-screening and health history process that can be filled out online before visiting a blood drive or donation center. The online process  takes about 10-15 minutes.

Donating blood saves lives and can be very rewarding, so start planning your next donation today.

Sources: Importance of the Blood Supply,  American Red Cross; Myths About Donating Blood,  American Red Cross, 2022; 9 Myths About Donating Blood,  Northwestern Medicine, 2022; Average distribution of blood types in the United States as of 2023,  Statista, 2023; What Should I Eat Before Donating Blood,  Northwestern Medicine, 2023