Donating plasma is a selfless act that helps people with severe, rare, and chronic illnesses access life-saving therapies. While the process is simple and beneficial, it’s important to understand what happens to your body after plasma donation so you can take the right steps to feel your best.
If you’ve just donated plasma or are planning to, you’ve come to the right place. Below, we’ve outlined what to do after donating plasma and some practical tips to help you recover faster.
What Happens to Your Body After Plasma Donation?
Most people feel great after donating plasma, not just because they’ve contributed to a worthy cause, but also because their bodies quickly start recovering. Plasma is mostly water, and your body replaces what was donated within hours.
Still, it’s normal to feel mildly tired or lightheaded right after donating. These effects usually fade quickly, especially if you follow basic post-donation care.
Taking a few extra steps after your donation can help restore balance and keep you feeling well, making it easier to continue donating regularly if you choose to.
How To Feel Better After Donating Plasma: Tips for a Smooth Recovery
Following a few simple habits right after your donation and over the next few days can make your recovery much smoother. If you’re a first-time donor or have experienced dizziness after donating in the past, it’s a good idea to bring a friend or family member along.
Having someone available to drive you home can help you feel more comfortable and prepared if you feel lightheaded after your session.
Here’s what to do after donating plasma to support your healing.
What To Do After Plasma Donation (While at the Center)
Rest in the Observation Area
Stay seated or lie down in the observation area for the time recommended by staff, usually 15 to 20 minutes. This helps your body adjust and reduces the risk of feeling lightheaded or faint.
Have a Snack
Your donation center usually offers a light snack and a drink. Take advantage of this to start replenishing your energy right away.
What To Do in the First Few Hours After Leaving
Keep the Bandage On
Leave the bandage on your arm for the recommended time (typically a few hours). This helps prevent further bleeding and lowers the risk of bruising or infection at the needle site.
Avoid Strenuous Activity
Skip heavy lifting, vigorous workouts (like running, cycling, and gym sessions), and any activities that strain your donation arm for the rest of the day. This helps prevent bruising and supports a smoother recovery.
Don’t Overheat
Stay cool and avoid hot showers, saunas, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight for a few hours. Overheating can increase the risk of dizziness.
Avoid Smoking
Try not to smoke for at least one hour after donating, as it may interfere with your recovery.
What To Do After Donating Plasma: The Next 24 to 48 Hours
Continue to Hydrate
Plasma is about 90% water; replenishing that fluid helps your body recover faster and restore balance. In the 24 to 48 hours following your donation, aim to drink an extra 32 ounces or more of water, herbal teas, broth, or diluted fruit juice. Avoid caffeine and alcohol after donating, as these are diuretics that can dehydrate you.
Eat Regular Meals
Don’t skip meals after donating. Balanced, regular meals help restore energy and essential nutrients. Here are some healthy and nourishing options to incorporate into your meals:
- Protein-Rich Foods:
- Lean meats like poultry, lean beef, and pork tenderloin
- Fish and seafood
- Eggs
- Beans and lentils
- Tofu
- Greek yogurt
- Nuts and seeds
- Iron-Rich Foods:
- Red meat and organ meats (like liver)
- Poultry and fish
- Spinach and leafy greens
- Fortified cereals and whole grains
Pair iron-rich foods with citrus fruits, broccoli, bell peppers, or other sources of vitamin C to help your body absorb iron more efficiently. Foods rich in folic acid and vitamin B-2, like leafy greens, eggs, meats, and dairy, can also help new red blood cell production.
Monitor for Any Side Effects
Always pay attention to how you feel after donating. While most side effects are minor and temporary, contact your donation center or seek medical advice if you experience:
- Excessive bleeding
- Significant bruising
- Severe pain
- Ongoing dizziness or fainting
- Any unusual symptoms
Follow your center’s instructions to care for the bandage and needle site, and avoid picking at any scab that may form. It’s important to keep it clean and dry to prevent infection and promote proper healing.
Rest If Needed
If you feel tired or weak after donating, rest and skip strenuous activity for the rest of the day. This gives your body time to recover fully. You can return to your regular routine within 24 hours. Great ways to relax include reading, watching a movie, or doing light stretching.
Make a Difference: Donate at ABO Plasma
Your plasma donation makes a world of difference. Taking care of yourself after every donation ensures you can continue to be part of this life-saving process for as long as you wish.
At ABO Plasma, we’re committed to making sure every donor feels safe, supported, and comfortable throughout the donation process. New donors can check out our donor checklist to learn what to expect and how to prepare.
Ready to donate? Schedule an appointment today if it’s your first time, or feel free to walk in if you’re a returning donor. We look forward to seeing you soon!