First, it is important to understand that donating plasma is very different from donating blood. During plasma donations, we only take your plasma. Your red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets are all returned back to your body. In whole blood donations, ALL of these blood components are taken and donated – plasma, red and white blood cells, and platelets. That is why, with whole blood donations, you must wait longer between donations.

Plasma donation is a safe and comfortable process that takes a little over an hour. If you are donating for the first time, you will undergo a medical screening to make sure you are healthy and fit. Our professionally trained staff will monitor your plasma donation to make sure you are comfortable at all times. All our centers use sterile plasma collection equipment to eliminate the possibility of transmitting viral infections.

To ensure your continued health and safety during plasma donation, there are limits to how frequently you are able to donate. You may donate plasma twice in a seven-day period and need at least one day in between donations. So, on average you can donate plasma about 4 times a month. Your body quickly replaces the lost plasma, which is why you’re able to donate fairly frequently!

If you’ve recently donated blood, you must wait 8 weeks until you can donate blood or plasma again. This is why many individuals thinking of donating both will donate plasma FIRST. By donating plasma first, you only have to wait a few days before you are able to donate blood.

To donate regularly, make sure to take care of your health and listen to your body. Prioritize a good nutrition, stay hydrated and rest well. We are so thankful for our donors who ask insightful questions and contribute their life-saving plasma. Anytime you have questions, pop into your nearest KEDPLASMA center or give us a call. We will be happy to walk you through the donation process, safety precautions, and more.