• Will I have to limit my activities after donating?
• Will I become anemic after donating?
• If something is wrong with my blood will I find out?
• Can I find out my blood type?
• How often may I donate blood?
• What if I have high or low blood pressure?
• Can I donate if I have been taking an antibiotic?
• How long do I have to wait after receiving a tattoo and/or body piercing?
• I've been turned down before, should I try again?

Will I have to limit my activities after donating?

We ask you not to do any strenuous activity or heavy lifting for several hours after donating. You may want to schedule your appointment several hours before or after planned exercise.

Will I become anemic after donating?

Most people do not become anemic after donating. The body begins replenishing lost fluid and red cells within 24 hours.

If something is wrong with my blood, will I find out?

If something is found in your blood, you will be contacted by letter or, in rare situations, by phone. You will be provided with your test results and an explanation of what those results mean. This may be useful should you want to consult your doctor. You or your doctor may call the Red Cross if you have questions about these results.

Can I find out my blood type?

Yes. About six weeks after donating blood, a donor identification card bearing your blood type will be sent to your home address.

How often may I donate blood?

You may donate:

• whole blood every 56 days
• platelets every three days, up to 24 times in a 12-month period
• plasma every 28 days, up to 13 times in a 12-month period
• double red cells every 112 days, up to three times in a 12-month period

What if I have high or low blood pressure?

Your blood pressure will be checked before every donation. If your blood pressure is within an acceptable range, you may donate. If you take medication to control your blood pressure, you may still be eligible to donate.

Can I donate if I have been taking an antibiotic?

You may be able to donate blood as long as you have taken your last dose of the prescribed course of antibiotics and have no symptoms. Please check with a Red Cross staff member at the blood drive to find out if you are able to donate.

How long do I have to wait after receiving a tattoo and/or body piercing?

If your tattoo was applied in a state-regulated/licensed tattoo facility, you may be able to donate. You may donate after receiving a body piercing as long as you are certain a sterile needle was used. Otherwise, you must wait one year after receiving a tattoo or body piercing.

I've been turned down before. Should I try again?

Yes. Most deferrals are temporary-not permanent. Check with Red Cross staff to find out if you can now donate.

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