There continues to be a high demand for plasma donations to help improve the quality of life for patients with various medical conditions. Unfortunately, many individuals hesitate to donate plasma due to harmful and often misleading misconceptions.
Below, we debunk five common myths about plasma donation. If you’re considering donating plasma, learning these plasma donation facts may put your mind at ease and help you make an informed decision.
Five Plasma Donation Myths and the Truth Behind Them
Myth 1: Donating Plasma Is Dangerous
Fact: Plasma donation is a safe and sterile process
Plasma donation is a safe procedure. Plasma centers follow strict guidelines established by regulatory agencies to ensure the well-being of both donors and recipients.
So, how does plasma donation work? Many of the fears surrounding plasma stem from misconceptions about the process.
The process of collecting plasma is called plasmapheresis. The plasma is separated from the rest of your blood through a specialized machine. Red blood cells and other blood components are returned to your body.
The following are some of the safety measures in place for plasma donations.
- Single-use, Sterile Needles: Plasma donation centers use a fresh, sterile needle for each donation, reducing the risk of infection.
- Health Screening: Before every donation, donors undergo a thorough health screening to ensure they are in good health and meet eligibility requirements.
- FDA-regulated: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates plasma donation centers in the United States, ensuring they adhere to nationally established safety standards.
Myth 2: People who Donate Plasma Only Do it for Financial Rewards
Fact: There are various reasons why people donate plasma
While it’s true that some plasma centers offer compensation, plasma donors are motivated by reasons other than financial. Many people donate plasma to give back to their community or help others in need.
Plasma is a vital component of plasma-derived therapies needed by individuals with rare, genetic, and chronic conditions. It is also used to treat burns, trauma, and shock. For people with these conditions, plasma donations can mean the difference between life and death.
Some people donate plasma because they have experienced the benefits of plasma-derived therapies or know someone in need. Overall, the reasons for donating plasma are unique to each individual. Regardless of the reason, plasma donations are always valuable and appreciated.
Myth 3: You Can Only Safely Donate Plasma Once a Month
Fact: You can donate plasma more frequently than blood.
Unlike whole blood donation, which requires a wait of 56 days between donations, plasma donation can be done more frequently. If you donate plasma at the American Red Cross, you can do so once every 28 days. However, other facilities, such as private plasma centers, may allow you to give plasma more often.
FDA guidelines state that healthy individuals can safely donate plasma no more than twice in a seven-day period, with a minimum of 24 hours between donations.
Plasma can be donated more frequently than whole blood because the human body regenerates plasma quickly. It can also replace the fluids lost during plasma donation within 24 to 48 hours.
Myth 4: People with Tattoos and Piercings Can’t Donate Plasma
Fact: You Can Donate Even If You Have Tattoos or Piercings
Donors with tattoos and piercings can still be eligible to give plasma as long as they meet certain requirements.
Most plasma centers require that tattoos and piercings be completely healed and not show signs of infection. Additionally, some centers may require a waiting period after getting a new tattoo or piercing, usually between four and 12 months.
Myth 5: Donated Plasma is Only Used for Research
Fact: Plasma Donations Are Used for Treatments and Research
Some may think that donated plasma is used solely for research purposes, which may not sound as rewarding as directly helping someone in need. The truth is that donated plasma serves a very important dual purpose.
It’s used to create life-saving, plasma-derived therapies for people with bleeding disorders, immune deficiencies, and other rare and chronic conditions. Plasma is also used in vital research that can lead to new treatment options.
Help Save Lives—Donate Plasma Today
Donating plasma is a safe, relatively simple process that can have a significant positive impact on the lives of countless patients in need. By understanding the plasma donation facts behind the myths, you can feel more confident about making a difference.
At ABO Plasma in Orem, our goal is to help save lives by collecting source plasma to be used in the manufacture of plasma-derived therapies. Join us in our mission by scheduling an appointment for your first donation.
View our donation checklist to learn more about our donation process. If it’s your first time donating, consider booking an appointment online. Individuals who have donated plasma to ABO Plasma in the past may walk in at any time during operating hours.