In some countries, you can donate starting at the age of 17. It’s 18 in the United States, though. You will have to wait to donate if you’re pregnant or if you recently gave birth. You will also need to wait if you recently got a tattoo, left the country, or are being tested for medical issues. You cannot donate if you have a transmittable disease, have had a blood transfusion after 1980, or you’ve had an organ transplant.
You can search for an American Red Cross plasma donation center near you by searching online here.
Don’t drink any alcohol the night before the donation and avoid smoking. Alcohol and nicotine can mess with your blood’s plasma levels.
Your blood type is relevant because plasma drawn from AB blood is universal, the same way O blood is universal . If you’ve got AB blood, you’re in high demand! Your first donation may take 2-3 hours depending on how busy the clinic is. It will be a lot faster the next time you go to donate plasma, though.
The physical is a basic exam, where your vitals are taken and you answer a series of questions regarding your medical history. You will also disclose to the doctor any medications you are currently taking and their dosage. [6] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
The blood test will also check for HIV, hepatitis B, and other conditions that can be transferred via blood.
If you are scared of needles, tell the technician ahead of time and try to focus on something else while the needle is going in.
The needle might pinch when it’s going in, but this part of the process shouldn’t hurt. Some plasma donation centers might let you bring a friend for support and entertainment during the process.
Try to avoid lifting things while your arm is healing. It’s not dangerous, but you may find it deeply uncomfortable.
You can usually donate plasma every 28 days (up to 13 times a year) if you want to keep making a few bucks. The vast majority of plasma donation centers will pay you for your plasma. Check each donation center’s website to find their pay scale. The going market rate for plasma is typically $50-75 per appointment. However, some centers will pay up to $100 per donation. Look for a clinic that offers a big bonus for first time donations. CSL Plasma, for example, will allow you to earn up to $1,100 for your first month. [12] X Research source
Eat a light healthy meal a few hours after donating. Stick to lean protein, fruits and veggies, and whole wheat or grains. Avoid smoking and don’t drink any alcohol after your donation to avoid becoming sick while your body is repairing itself. If your arm hurts or begins to bruise, apply a cold pack to the injection site. If you get sick within 1-3 days after giving plasma, contact the clinic to let them know. They may need to discard your plasma.
