Can I Donate Blood?
DONOR ELIGIBILITY
Donating blood is safe and easy to do. But sometimes we all need help finding the power to do our part. What if you could overcome your own fears and uncertainties because you know you’re significantly impacting the lives of others? We’re here to guide you every step of the way and happy to answer any questions to make you feel comfortable.
If you’re in good health and meet the general eligibility criteria, then you are likely able to donate. Depending on the circumstances, if you were told previously that you couldn’t donate, you might be able to now.
As part of our commitment to safety, blood donors must meet certain requirements to give blood. The information below is not all-inclusive and is subject to change. It's important you review this information before scheduling an appointment.
If you have any questions regarding your eligibility, please call us at 731-427-4431. To learn more, read our Blood Donor Educational Material.
When you're ready to take the next step, remember to complete your Online Donor Registration the day you donate.
Basic Requirements For Blood Donation
Must be at least 17 years old.
Weigh at least 110 pounds.
Be in good general health.
Donors should make sure you eat within six hours of your donation. Drink plenty of fluids the day of your donation.
Bring a photo ID.
You must wait eight weeks between whole blood donations.
Health Conditions
Most health conditions are acceptable and you may be eligible to donate as long as you meet all other requirements. If you have any questions, please call us at 731-427-4431 or you may ask a donor services employee at the time of your donation.
Antibiotics: Must wait seven (7) days after completion of antibiotics. Antibiotics used for acne are acceptable.
Breastfeeding: Female donors who are breastfeeding are eligible to donate.
Cancer: Click here for more information.
Colds/Flu: You are not eligible if you are not feeling well and healthy the day of donation. You may donate seven (7) days after symptoms resolve.
Dental Work: You may donate 36 hours after routine dental care, such as cleanings and fillings.
Diabetes: If you have controlled diabetes (type I or II), you are eligible to donate.
Heart Disease: If you have a history of heart disease or heart attacks, you may not donate without proper clearance. Please contact us for additional information.
High Blood Pressure: If you have high blood pressure, you are eligible to donate if your blood pressure is within an acceptable range when taken on the day of donation.
Pregnant: If you are pregnant or have been pregnant in the last 6 weeks, you are not eligible to donate.
Surgery: Surgery is a six (6)week to six (6) month deferral depending on the type of surgery. Please contact us for more information.
Testosterone: if you're taking testosterone in shot, gel, cream, or pill form, you are eligible to donate as long as you meet all other criteria and donation intervals. If your hemoglobin is greater than 19 and you require phlebotomy, we will require an order from your physician.
Medications and Vaccinations
Many medications and vaccinations are acceptable. If you have questions about your medication or health condition, call us at 731-427-4431.
Tattoos, Piercings, & Permanent Make-Up
Tattoos/Permanent Make-up/Piercings: Tattoos are acceptable if the tattoo was applied in a state-regulated professional setting and site is healed.
If you received a tattoo or body piercing in one of the following states/district, we will ask you to wait 3 months from the date your tattoo/piercing was applied before giving blood: Georgia, Idaho, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Utah, Washington, D.C., and Wyoming.
Travel or Residence Outside of the United States or Canada
There are certain countries and popular travel destinations that are malaria risk areas that now only require a 3 month deferral.
For additional information, please contact us at 731-427-4431.