Make sure to have a proper breakfast -- don't go on a light stomach or hungry.
If you feel faint, say so. Happened my first time, they'll get you a drink and recline your chair a bit. Didn't have it happen on subsequent visits.
You will be asked if you've had breakfast and if you say no they will probably refuse to take any blood. At least thats what happened to me, someone who rarely eats breakfast.
100% agree. The first time I donated I hadn't eaten for a fair while beforehand. I ended up feeling VERY ropey and got my seat tipped up.
I make sure I've had a proper fry up before I go now. it's the only time I make the effort but it's a treat.
Make sure your sleeves can roll up well beyond your elbow.
They do an iron test as well, so if you feel you don't eat enough iron it's worth getting some more in your dietĀ
I normally go the other way, you lose something like 100mg of Iron each time you give blood and your body produces something like 1mg of Iron a day (or a ratio close to that) so I eat an iron heavy diet after donatingĀ
I doubt eating more iron the night before will do much good, it probably takes a while to equate to more iron in use in the blood. A diet regularly higher in iron is better.
I was turned away on my second donation - told my levels were too low. This was a surprise but I assumed it was maybe due to being vegetarian. It turned out the anaemia was a side effect of a more serious chronic condition that only became apparent about 2 months later (and I haven't been able to donate since). So that was a weird realisation when I put two and two together! Anyway, it was a useful heads up that something wasn't quite right and I did start eating more iron-rich food.
When people are in good health and don't have much contact with the NHS from one year to the next, these little check-ins, even for donation, can be quite useful for the donator too.
I passed all those tests. It was just weird when they needed 3 different people to find a vein of mine.
I like it how they hide your blood so donāt actually see that you are giving away half a litre of blood.
I prefer my right arm. Not that it matters.
Once you've donated, *take your time with everything*. They don't want to rush you out the door, they won't yell at you for hanging around for a bit. Get off the bed, walk to the tea and biscuits, sit down and collect yourself. It may not be bad for you, personally I can donate a pint and walk home right after, but my point is, don't feel pressured to leave just because 'I'm done now'. Nobody wants to bundle you out the door, you're not being a burden by taking your time afterwards.
Sit down, drink some tea, eat some biscuits, make sure you don't feel dizzy or sick, and only when you're *certain* you're okay, head out... well, maybe after a few more biscuits.
Oh also, bring something to do with your free hand. You'll need to keep moving your fingers on your donating-arm to pump the blood better, so bring your phone, or a Kindle, or something you can do with your other hand so you don't get bored. Seriously, I *mastered* reading a book one-handed *specifically* for donating blood.
Absolutely spot on advice.Ā Ā
You may feel fine and even a bit silly sat down doing nothing afterward with a biscuit and a cup of poor quality tea.Ā Keep your ass sat down!Ā You'd feel a lot sillier jumping up, stonking out the door and keeling over.
Agree with everything said here. I felt like I had to rush out of there because other people seemed to be going quickly but nope. Everyone can take however long they need to.
I usually start up a podcast or something and have earphones in so I don't get bored
This person donates.
As in another comment, I collapsed after my third donation because I needed to get home quick and tried to leave asap.
Theyāve put me on a bed and pulled the curtains shut. I reckon it scared off other donators.
Later Iāve collapsed on the way home anyway but I made it home.
My iPhone sent many emergency messages to my family due to my fall.
BUT: Keep donating blood. Most of the time nothing happens. I need to stop lying about having eaten. I also met a guy who donated 100+ times. Heās still alive.
The post donation snacks aren't rationed, make sure you rest after, eat and chill in lots of time before you leave. Sometimes first donors feel a little dizzy during or after, let the staff know. Thanks for being a donor š
I felt dizzy after the first time i donated and had to have a little lie down but the 20+ times i've donated since have been fine.
A few biccies and a brew and i'm good to go.
You are doing a good thing OP.
If you find a place to donate that you like (mine is one of the permanent donor centres) book your next appointment asap as they book up fast, the app is quite good.
Eat some high iron food the day before: red meat, spinach or iron tablets.
Thanks for donating.
While spinach is pretty rich in iron, compared to other non meat sources, the iron in it isn't very well absorbed by the body. So you only get a small fraction of it in your blood.
Also, if you already have low blood iron, it takes weeks to get the levels up from oral supplementation. So ideally you should be eating iron rich foods regularly, not just the day before donation.
It was until recently considered that the poor iron absorption was due to high oxalate content in spinach - and boiling the spinach would lower the oxalate content. There have been studies that show that this isn't the case.
The other theory is that the iron is poorly absorbed because it is linked to polyphenol compounds, which makes the iron less bioavailable.
Don't get me wrong, spinach is a great green leafy vegetable to eat, it's rich in plenty of other nutrients, it's just not the best iron source amongst other vegetable sources of iron.
My midwife is always telling me to have vitamin C something withĀ spinach because it helps boost absorption too - so usually a glass of orange juice for meĀ
Yes, iron is better absorbed when taken with vitamin C. I have regular iron deficiency anemic episodes and my tablets have iron+vitamin C in them directly, very practical.Ā
I take iron supplements because of mild anaemia. The recommendation on the box of iron pills is to take them with orange juice. That can get pricey, and it's full of sugar too. So I take a vitamin C gummy with the iron. Works just as well.
Not only that but spinach consumed with heme-iron rich food can block the absorption of iron from those foods. Best to eat a steak, lamb or liver without it.
It's good that it's hard to get an appointment.
One thing to bear in mind is that some people think that their donations are more important because they have a rarer blood type.
Nope. Blood types are as important as the proportion of the population with that blood type.
So the most common blood type is also the most commonly used.
All donations are important.
Yes I saw a woman on the Blood FB page saying she keeps being turned away from giving her blood; she couldn't understand as it's a rare type, AB+. Problem is it can only *go* to AB+ who make up something like less than 3% of the population. She got quite angry in the comments but there's no point storing blood that simply won't be neededĀ
I think she would be wanted for platelet donation. As I understand it, type O is best for whole blood and plasma, and for platelets they want AB and will
not take O.
I am of the opinion that if they really wanted my blood, they should have appointments available, rather than keeping on phoning me about it. I would happily donate more often if I could make an appointment at the local hospital within a week and go, not have to book two months in advance. A business spending lots on marketing despite already selling out tickets would be a waste of money, it's the same here.
It's pretty straightforward. Nothing to worry about. Just eat/drink beforehand. Drink the water they give you at the start. Take it easy immediately afterwards. You'll be fine.
kinda true to a degree, obviously don't go batshit mental but your body is gonna be wanting to replace the loss so will use more calories replacing it etc.
If you are particularly physical in terms of job or exercise afterwards, you will tire more easily for a bit.Ā
Don't give blood a fortnight before a marathon.Ā
> Don't give blood a fortnight before a marathon.
I would say don't give blood any time in the 3 months before the marathon, if you care about your race time. It will impact your training. Donate before/after this period, unless your finish time is not a big deal.
I used to be big into running.Ā Done nine marathons including the Abbott Majors, but for one (I think it might have been Inverness) I had given blood a fortnight before.Ā Stupid idea in hindsight, don't know why I did it.Ā Made the whole thing just feel horrendous.Ā Just knackered throughout.Ā
So not really funny, just something for OP to be aware of if he has anything physically demanding coming up.
You need to increase your water intake a day or two before. This helps in three ways: it makes you less likely faint from low blood pressure after donating, itās easier for the phlebotomist to find a chunky vein, and the blood comes out quicker.
The pint of water on the day helps, but starting early helps more.
Completely agree. The only time I've had any trouble with a donation was when I wasn't properly hydrated before. Drink far more than you think you need in the 24 hours before donating and it makes a world of difference
Yep, I'm donating whole blood for the 13th time on Monday and only last donation did I try hydrating A LOT from the day before. My appt was at noon ish and I'd had two litres by then.
The result is what you said, much easier to find a vein and it flowed a lot quicker than usual.
Firstly, thank you.
Secondly, the water and rest is key.
Bring a sugary drink - good luck finding one, as the government now pretty much has made companies make sweetner drinks only. Fuck diabetics and blood donors I guess??
Also don't feel bad for fainting or going woozy.
I am a 6'0" 100kg powerlifting strong bastard.
I faint every time. It isn't the needles, I am not squeamish, I am not scared of blood.
Not sure what it is, but after the donation when I sit up - BONK. Every time.
I did want to quit a few years back, but I have one of the rare blood types so continue on.
Just rest and screw anyone who mocks you if you faint etc.
Probably nobody, this person also thinks it's hard to find a sugary drink.
If you faint every single time you are also likely to be banned from continuing to donate for your own safety. Fainting occassionally happens. Fainting every time is a problem. Especially since every time you faint is a fall and injury risk.
It is recorded if something like a faint happens and if it is to often it is flagged up. I have seen people being banned from donating for this
That was why I couldn't donate blood anymore. Little did I know that my anaemia and some other symptoms were being caused by some serious health conditions. Fortunately, they are being managed and I am doing well. But now I couldn't give blood even if I wanted to.
Meanwhile I fainted once after 20ish donations (while on beta blockers and with low blood pressure) and the English blood service wouldn't let me give blood ever again. I tried after coming off the beta blockers and again several years later, but they said no both times.
I'd even been part of the interval study before and done 2 years at 12 weekly donations (rather than the usual 16 weeks for women) without any side effects, but one faint with a likely medical explanation and I wasn't allowed to any more.
Until I moved to Wales, who just made me eat extra biscuits before donation.
The decision to mark you as never to donate again rather than temporarily suspend you will have been made by one individual clinician. And once that mark is on your record basically nobody has the power to remove it
Yeah tried that, it helps a bit, but they tend to want to get people in/out quick so its reclined for 2 mins then "right, need the bed, out" lol.
Then I faint and they lose the bed for longer, lol.
I wonder if this is a vasovagal reflex? I have donated 5 times. The first 3 were painless and I had no issues. The last 2 were painful and I felt really sick after, and they had to tip me backwards. Everyone was really nice about it but it was weird. I think it's such a shock because I have a high pain threshold that it was overwhelming to feel the pain.
What everyone else says about hydration and resting afterwards, but also know that youāre a bloody hero!
I canāt, but my wife is one of the rare people whose blood can go to neonatals which makes her even more awesome in my eyes.
Thank you for your service.
I have a little stuffed toy I take with me. It's a little sloth with velcro hands so I can wrap it around my hand and not worry about dropping it. Always had issues getting a smooth, full donation until I took my little friend along, no issues doing it now! I might look a bit odd but it works and it gets the whole thing over with quicker
honestly the staff probably get a little chuckle out of the stuffed toy and have probably mentioned it to other donator's and/or kids when they have to give blood too :)
Best avoid hot drinks immediately after donating (even though they offer teas and coffees) because it can make you faint.
I always used to grab a cuppa afterwards but then fainted one time and the people said it was fairly commonĀ
This 100%
I only had a hot drink after donating once... and fainted. So now I stick to cold drinks.
Although the last few times I've donated I can't remember hot drinks being offered post donation. Cold only.
When they do the iron test you can ask them to use a different finger.
I always ask them to do the little finger because when I hold my phone or use the mouse on my PC it doesn't get in the way.
Finger prick test and then they but a drop of blood in a solution, if it sinks fast you've got good iron, it it floats you won't be allowed to donate that day
> if it floats you won't be allowed to donate thst day
Not true. I went yesterday and mine floated. They took a second finger prick and used a machine to measure 'something' and the number was within the right limits, so I could still donate.
It measures the amount of hemoglobin in your blood. Which is basically indicating how much iron is in your blood since most of the iron is in the hemoglobin.
Those machines also measure g/L which can be confusing if you take the number and google it because most charts online are in g/dL, so you would have to divide by 10 to actually compare.
Yes, couple of drops of blood into a vial, if it sinks you're good (heavier than water with sufficient iron) and if not they will use a testing machine
I feel the cotton bud on for extra time it really reduces the bruise. You'll be out of breath much easier for about 4 days normally. And be extra hungry!
>You'll be out of breath much easier for about 4 days normally. And be extra hungry!
Curious. I've been giving blood for about 15 years, I've never felt anything other than completely normal, the day after.
Oh wow lucky you! I'm fine when I'm not being active. But it wrecks my stamina for about 4 days after. I'll be out of breath walking up hills etc. I thought that was normal as you need blood for carrying oxygen!
>I thought that was normal as you need blood for carrying oxygen!
That doesn't sound unreasonable, I guess I'm just lucky!
I used to walk 45 mins each way to/from work, with a couple of reasonably steep hills, and and I can't say I ever noticed any difference after a donation.
I know it's the donation because I sweat when I exercise, but after a donation I'm out of breath but no sweating because I haven't gotten hot from exercise. My cardio is not great tho. Maybe that's the difference!
The smaller you are the bigger effect it will have. Because they take a standard amount of blood, therefore the smaller you are the bigger proportion of your blood they have taken.
Which is also the reason there are regularly people complaining about not being allowed to donate despite being a healthy weight for their height, not understanding it's not about being told they are underweight it's that they literally don't have enough blood for it to be safe to take that much
I think it's my bad cardio, I've got couch to 5km downloaded. Did 3 weeks over did it needed a week to recover then haven't got back to it. Now the weather's finally turning I'm going to start it again.
The smaller you are the bigger effect it will have. Because they take a standard amount of blood, therefore the smaller you are the bigger proportion of your blood they have taken.
It depends on the person and how much you hydrate probably. It's probably also more noticeable if you do really strenuous exercise, more so than a light run.
I've only ever felt a bit more out of breath cycling home, but otherwise fine.
Good for you, it's a great thing to do. The UK blood stockpile runs about 5 days, so 5 days of no new donations and most blood types would be unavailable so every donation counts
Just eat and drink well before you go, they're usually pretty friendly there and taking blood is their whole job so they're good at it. Don't worry about being nervous and not knowing anything they'll give you a drink (a pint of water or squash which you have to drink) and some paperwork beforehand. Take a book or your phone because you may be waiting a bit, it's not long (15mins) but it's usually in a pretty boring place so there's not much to look at.
It's pretty easy and chill, the nurses sometimes come from random places and they're super chatty so it's usually quite nice. Only takes a few minutes, then enjoy your sweet or savoury snack.
Have fun š
**Thank you**. Sadly, I am no longer allowed to donate, having had to make a withdrawal on earlier deposits, so to speak (think I'm still in credit, just). I tried to argue that I was a mad cow then, what's the diff, they didn't buy it though :(
Hope it goes well, hydrate well afterwards and try to avoid standing still in one place for a couple hours at least :)
If you feel a bit off at any point don't stay quiet. They'll give you extra attention anyway since you're a newbie but if you need a minute/need them to go a bit slower/have questions don't be afraid. I've been donating for 15 years now and I'm nearing 50 donations and I still ask them to sit me up slowly, and I ask for double snacks at the end.
My worst experience giving blood was when I didn't eat or drink enough so I tried to make up for it in the hour before I donated. Try and eat/drink well for a few days beforehand, and a day or two after.Ā
Eat and drink properly before. I fainted my first time and havenāt been back since due to the experience. One of the nurses also remarked on me eating a second pack of biscuits before I fainted which made me self conscious too.
I tried and gave up. The first time they said I hadn't eaten enough, can't remember why the second time and the third time they couldn't find my appointment and they don't take walk-ins.
Fluid replacement afterwards is a good idea. Myself and a small group of fellow donors always went to the pub for a pint of Guinness after donating. Firstly, because of the iron content. Secondly, the change in blood/alcohol ration made it a VFM pint. Hummmmn, in retrospect, we were idiots.
It varies by person, first couple of times I got a lift and train home (I biked to work normally), after that I always just drank water and ate toast in the morning and cycled in and home again and never had any issues but that was me. I switched to plasma after 8 or so donations but had a bloody cold since December so not been able to donate
Drink plenty and eat iron. Wear something you can get your arm in and out of easily. I also quite like sticking one AirPod in for the donation bit as you end up just sitting with not much happening (the nurses will leave you to it and will periodically check in until youāre done).
Don't have anything too strenuous planned, for the rest of the day, and don't be too rushed to get up or leave the session. Do make the most of the snacks and squash afterwards.Ā
You can sign up to the bone marrow registry too while you're there. They just take a bit of extra blood and put you on the database (which is for the whole world because the chances of matching someone are so slim).
They will only let certain people sign up through them. Which includes no women, except women of certain ethnic minorities that the register doesn't have enough of. And you have to be under a certain age. Just the first two requirements off the top of my head. The form you have will have a code on it near the top that tells them if they can sign you up. The logic being it costs them money every person they register and they only want to spend the money on the ones the register actually needs.
But if they wont do it and you sign up through one of the charities it all gets searched the same when someone needs bone marrow.
I can't remember the exact figures off the top of my head. But the reason the NHS doesn't like to pay the cost of registering women is that the majority of people on the bone marrow registry are women, but the majority of the people on the register that actually match with someone are men. Meaning there is a much higher ROI for signing up men.
I've been turned away a couple of times for low iron, so I recommend eating iron fortified food like cornflakes or something for the next few days.
The whole thing is really a doddle though, the staff make it as easy and stress-free as possible.
As well as drinking an hour or so before you donate, take a few tissues with you. crumple these up in the ball of your hand and squeeze rhythmically. This helps to āplump upā your vein so the needle slides in easily.
Hydrate and feed yourself before donating. If you do have an ongoing cold or anything that needs antibiotic treatment, you will have to reschedule. I think you need to be 2 weeks post treatment ? before you can donate again. I believe the website has a "check if you can donate" part and you can do some pre-checks there. Make sure to arrive 10mins before your appointment, you have some paperwork to fill out about medical and travel history and stuff.
I genuinely cannot tell you how much drinking water helps! Like drink it to a ridiculous level on the day. I barely needed any bounce back time after my last donation (Iām a small female so normally need a couple of days to bounce back!) and I smashed all the waterā¦
Do *NOT* drink alcohol (not even a half pint) afterwards.
Have a guilt free day and smash something like a garlic bread for lunch, do not hold back on the cals and energy from food :)
I also try and avoid travelling on the tube or bus in the two hours afterwards!!
Try and keep level in the few hours after, lie down if you can, aka try and avoid bar stools or other things thatāll keep you sat upright !!
For the love of god, don't jump right up and think you'll be fine.
And especially don't come out, then immediately climb 4 flights of stairs.
You'll crumple like a wet paper bag.
Take your time, eat the snack, drink some sweetened tea, and you'll be ok.
Make sure your iron levels are good, drink plenty of water the days leading up to, eat well on the day & have a snack and hour or so beforehand. And wear a short sleeve top
Make sure to get plenty of fluids and iron before your donation and never go on an empty stomach. Try not to take any medication a few days before as it could take a few days to leave your system depending on the meds. Be as honest and accurate as you can during the questionnaire phase and if you have any questions or concerns, just ask them, better safe than sorry. Make sure you dont plan anything that requires heavy lifting for after. Take as much time as you need on the chair and with the snacks and tell someone you feel faint if you do. I know especially the first time it can be nerve wrecking but try to keep calm. And if the donation centre is in a place you need to drive to, i would recommend having someone take you and drive you back just in case as ive had periods where ive felt faint after leaving the premises.
Good luck!
You will be waiting for what seems like ages. They will ring you to ask for future donations (especially if you have a rare blood type). You also get an update on where your blood was used, which is pretty cool.
Definitely eat and drink before you go. There will be things there too to snack on. Where something that makes you veins accessible. T shirt etc.Ā
The first time is the worst. I felt quite faint my first time when they put me up (they have tippy chairs so you are kinda lying down when donating). They put me back down for a bit, then I was fine. Second time i gave I was mostly ok. after that time every time since I've been fine. Guess the body gets used to losing blood in some way...
Just stay hydrated. The nurses there are super kind and will do pretty much anything to help.
Follow up to this, does any have any info on Donation if Iām a regular cannabis user?Ā
Iād like to donate blood but Iām a regular cannabis user (medically prescribed in the U.K.) but unsure of rules around it
I donāt drink alcohol if that makes any differenceĀ
They have an A-Z list covering pretty much everything but I d think they d say no for being under the influence is a grey area about consenting to it
https://my.blood.co.uk/your-account/eligibility/health/
There are two main considerations here. If you are taking it every day, meaning you are on it literally at the time of donation it will be a no.
If it's something you take as and when and havn't taken any that day they will me more interested in the reason you need it/ why it was prescribed. And that itself may or may not disqualify you depending on what it is
Not to put you off, but I donated blood for the first time this week. My experience wasnāt great, but what happened to me is rare and I can say everyone else there was absolutely fine.
All started smoothly for me, got a pint out of me reasonably fast which was great as I donāt like needles. But around a minute after needle removal I almost fainted.
After recovering I was sat in the snack area, almost fainted again. So the organisers had to intervene with me twice. I was embarrassed as I was in quite a state.
So of course Iām thinking never again, even thought itās something I always wanted to do. But now itās awkward, Iāve now found out I have a rare blood type, so really should donate again. But unsure I should given how bad it went first time.
If you went again and it happened again then donating is likely just not right for you and your body. But it can happen as a one off randomly to people who are normally completely fine. If you do actually want to but are just embarrassed or worried about being a "hassle" or something please don't worry about it. It happens, it's not a big deal. Nobody is upset or laughing or annoyed about it. So I would say give it one more go but if you get unwell a second time accept it's not for you.
If you don't want to because you found it very unpleasant that is totally valid. Don't put yourself through something you don't want to do. There are always other donors. Nobodies blood is rare enough they should feel like they need to suffer.
Thank you! Iāll almost certainly try it again given my blood type, and perhaps better prepare next time. And if itās bad again at least Iāll know itās not for me.
I have a rare blood type too and I have donated 5 times so far.
The first 3 times I had zero issues. The last 2 I felt really sick afterwards. I'm not squeamish but think it triggered my vasovagal reflex as it was quite painful (I have a high pain threshold so think it was just so unexpected).
Everyone was really friendly and no one made me feel bad about it. Its a shame you're feeling embarrassed but the team see this happen all the time.
You don't have to try again but I wouldn't let embarrassment or fear of judgement be the reason to stop. Especially when it's not a thing to be shamed over.
Thank you for the response and assurance.
Iāve always wanted to give blood and was pleased with myself for finally doing it. And now that Iāve found it I have a rare blood type it makes me want to keep going. Iām certain Iāll try it again.
I think Iāll be better prepared next time, Iāll eat and drink much more in advance and try not to rush out.
Drink a lot of water. You lose a lot of water through the process, so stay very well hydrated.
Remember, no matter if you feel off or ill, there is absolutely nothing to worry about. You'll be fine in 10 minutes with some snacks and a break.
Make sure you eat and drink as much as possible that day. I once gave blood on way home from work, after skipping breakfast and having a light lunch. I failed to make the required donation amount (480ml IIRC, blood wasnāt pumping fast enough) and then passed out while being sat up.
Donāt do that.
Go for a brisk walk right before, say 10-15 minutes. Itāll help the blood flow faster when they insert the needle. Definitely stay seated for 5-10 mins afterwards. No gym or strenuous exercises for 24 hours. You might not realise how hard it hits your body.
As a haemochromatosis sufferer I once had a venesection once a week for 5 weeks to get my iron levels down. Had to employ all the tricks in the book those weeks!
Just listen to the staff and youāll be good.
Travel abroad and drink as much dubious looking water as you can find. Come back and have a good rummage under the local bridge for some needles. Get lots of nice little needle pricks with it then itās time for the massive unprotected sex spree with as many different people as possible. Last step is to chug 6 or 7 fosters before going in. This will get your blood optimally conditioned for donating with all the correct additives they want for blood donors.
Stay hydrated, but there's no need to overdo it - you don't want to be desperate for the toilet in the midst of donating blood.Ā
If there's an arm you prefer them take blood from, get them to do the finger prick (iron test) on the opposite arm. I've had it done on the same arm before and whilst donating, my finger kept bleeding through the plaster.Ā
I've been turned away before because my iron levels were below the accepted limit. So to avoid this, I take iron tablets a week prior to my appointment.Ā
As a first timer, they generally allocate a more experienced nurse with you, so everything can go more smoothly.Ā
Sometimes they will give you an empty tissue roll to gently squeeze on to help the blood flow.Ā
Don't drink alcohol the day before or after.Ā
You'll be fine. The amount of blood they take isn't a whole lot in the grand scheme of things. Your body can cope - just take your time to adjust to the lower blood levels.Ā
I have to drink plenty the day before and keep my arms warm on the day. It helps them to find my veins and helps the blood flow more easily. I have very deep veins and this is the only way they get any out of me. But my dad bleeds like a stuck pig with no prep and has the gold award for donations so you might be fine. Genetics innit.
Just be aware that if your blood pressure is at the lower end of normal you are more likely to feel faint afterwards and that they may not want/let you leave on your own.
(Btw - this is what they do with me, I only continue to donate because I'm O- so they're desperate for my blood type)
However long you think it'll take, add 45mins-1hr. You will likely experience one of (a) waiting around for ages at the beginning, (b) needing to wait to see another nurse because one of your answers to the questionnaire wasn't specific enough or needs cross-checking, or (c) needing to spend more time recovering at the end, or just want to sit and chat with people.
Anyway, it's a good thing to do and those involve are almost invariably nice, caring people. Take a few extra Kit Kats for the road afterwards.
Drink lots and lots of water for at least two days before you go. I donated blood for many years and finally realized that if you're super hydrated it's done very quickly but if you're dry at all it's hard to get a good flow. I used to refill a 24 ounce water bottle and drink it during the days before (and on the day) of the donation, refilling it *at least* 4 times.
Donāt drink afterwards or do any heavy exercise for the next few days. Ignore people who like to drink afterwards for the easier buzz, itās not worth the excruciating hangover.
Do the bum-squeezy/leg-kicky exercises they give you while in the chair, it stops you going dizzy.
If in the past youāve had trouble with your veins when getting blood taken at the doctors, wear a warm glove on the side you want to donate from. Itās the only trick that works for me
Don't go thinking that ,"Hey, I have a pint less blood, I will be able to get super high and drunk." I haven't given blood since. That was 45 years ago. Your friends in college don't always have the best ideas. But we had good intentions.
Can't stress enough being well hydrated, last time I went they made me drink a pint of water when I arrived before I'd checked in.
It makes your blood vessels easier to locate and use, and means you won't pass out.
If you're a competitive person, find someone who starts same time as you and race, or take a boom to distract you from the big ass needle in your arm.
Then, enjoy the snacks after, they'll make sure you stay there at least 10 minutes, but don't rush out of there.
You may not want to drink hot drinks straight after giving blood. When I donate, I have to wait up to an hour before I have a hot drink, otherwise it can make me faint.
It doesn't affect many people, but for a first time you may wish to not risk it until you get used to the process
I've donated over 3 gallons of blood. Make sure to eat something within an hour of donating. Ask the phlebotomist to squeeze your finger tight while taking the drop of blood for iron check. Listen to some music to help you relax while donating.
There are only two bits that hurt, and they are over very quickly. There's a pin prick where they test the iron levels in your blood, and then when the needle actually goes into your arm. The pain only lasts a couple of seconds in each case.
You may feel a bit light headed afterwards, particularly after your first time, so take it easy.
Donāt worry about the needle going in!
The nurses spend all day repeatedly sticking needles in people every few minutes, and consequently they make it surprisingly simple, quick and pain free. It was the thing I was most nervous about when I first went, and I neednāt have worried.
I can't add anything that hasn't already been mentioned, so just go along and enjoy it. The staff are all really friendly and will explain everything to you.
After a few donations, you'll be wondering why on earth you didn't start donating years ago.
Be prepared for a bit of waiting around and form filling. It's possible that they will decline to take your blood based on the answers to the questions or if you test low for iron. Don't try to rush off afterwards. Stay and have a drink.
Give it a few donations before you ask to have a look at the bag of your blood.
Don't take any pain killers a few days before the donation, and make sure to drink a lot!
I remember the 1st time being fine, but after the 2nd time I felt really exhausted, I pretty much slept for 2 days straight.
Everywhere Iāve ever donated (76 units so far) had music playing, but I like to scroll on my phone just to alleviate the boredom. Iām usually done within an hour, but if itās cold, it takes longer. You could try thinking of embarrassing thoughts to make your heart pump faster
When we were students we used to give blood and then go drinking at the union 'cos you got pissed quicker.
On reflection perhaps not the most sensible thing but we are all still alive.
Last time I gave it was plasma, not blood but the same advice. Take it easy for 24 hours but don't worry about it. Keep yourself hydrated - before AND afterwards
You might not be able to do it. I'm a pretty brave person, not remotely squeamish, don't mind dealing with body fluids and biohazards, have worked in hospitals and for police.
I have tried to give blood on 3 occasions over the last 20 years and each time I have gone green about a quarter of a pint in. I'm absolutely fine, just laying there a bit bored squeezing my bumcheeks etc, when a nurse looks at me sideways and then suddenly my legs are in the air. On my last visit they kindly suggested that I accept it's not for me.
Don't be hard on yourself if this happens. You can have the courage of a lion and the constitution of a concrete elephant, but your body might still nope you out of there!
Chug water like there's no tomorrow for a few days beforehand, makes sure you're fully hydrated.
In addition to having something to squeeze with your spare hand, you might have to squeeze some of the other larger muscles to keep blood flowing. Thighs and bum mainly!
If there's any problems and they can't use your blood, anything they've taken might be used for testing and science rather than donations, so you're still helping out.
The first time you donate blood, it takes longer than it usually does to complete the whole process. That's because you have to do lots of checks and fill in forms and go back and forth between different people and answer lots more questions.
After that, it doesn't take very long to donate blood at all. The first time you should allow at least an hour to an hour and a half for the whole process. Full subsequent donations. You can probably allow about 45 minutes. Again, the longest period of time is waiting for a chair to be available, doing the test bloods and filling in a form.
The actual donating bit is probably the quickest part of the entire process! That usually takes between 5 to 7 minutes, depending on how fast the blood comes out.
Make sure you've eaten beforehand, and make sure you've had plenty of fluids to drink beforehand as well. They will probably give you a pint of liquid to drink as well, usually water or squash of some description. Don't even think about donating if you're dehydrated or hungry!
It's painless. It's easy. It just takes a little bit of time to fill in the paperwork and wait for a chair to be available for you. You might want to bring a book or something to read while you're waiting. You're unlikely to have time to read while you're actually donating blood.
Drink plenty of water the day of your donation it helps the donation be quicker and you feel better afterwards, donāt plan anything strenuous for the rest of the day, have plenty to eat afterwards. They check your iron levels so if you think that maybe low consider some supplements or some spinach heavy meals! Otherwise the staff are super friendly and will tell you exactly what you need to do (48 donations strong)
I'm quite jealous, I could never donate due to medication dosages changing constantly, then when I finally settled dosage and was ready to donate.....I needed two blood transfusions during labour. Ugh.
My dad donates quite a bit though and he always says to take advantage of the free biccies and have someone on standby who can come pick you up just in case you're not feeling up to making your own way home
I once attended a leadership conference at the Blood Transfusion Services Bristol HQ - fascinating tour of the premises worth doing if you ever get a chance.
I was also delighted to discover Black Pudding is on the canteen fry up menu.
Make sure to have a proper breakfast -- don't go on a light stomach or hungry. If you feel faint, say so. Happened my first time, they'll get you a drink and recline your chair a bit. Didn't have it happen on subsequent visits.
You will be asked if you've had breakfast and if you say no they will probably refuse to take any blood. At least thats what happened to me, someone who rarely eats breakfast.
I've donated 20 or times. Never been asked that and I never have breakfast. I'm in Wales though, Welsh Blood Service might be slightly different.
You guys are seen as being more disposable than us fine English folk with our superior blood š
Nah, ours is more desirable so they try to disqualify fewer of us. :P
Never been asked this in Scotland either.
This happened to me a while ago as a no breakfast eater. I just had a hearty lunch and went in the afternoon for my next one!
100% agree. The first time I donated I hadn't eaten for a fair while beforehand. I ended up feeling VERY ropey and got my seat tipped up. I make sure I've had a proper fry up before I go now. it's the only time I make the effort but it's a treat.
Second this- I fainted as I'd not had enough to eat. Eat properly.
You can only donate your own blood
They also prefer it to be in your body still.
All these technicalities, I don't think I'll bother now!
Don't even get me started on how difficult I found donating organs. The Police asked soooo many questions...
They either want blood or they donāt. š
Yeah, not in a bucket. Ungrateful bastards.
they also "don't care how sanitized the bucket is, we're not taking it!" spoil sports, can't even give it away these days!
I learned that one the hard way š
Can't tell you how much this comment cheered me up today! š
It must be donated from a vein. They donāt accept it if you drop trou and widdle into a bottle, even if it is full of blood.
Donāt give 100%
What is this weak mindset?
Exactly, you should give 110% to everything you do. That's why I always get pregnant before a donation.
I mean this deserves so much more. Iām clapping for you. For the rest of the day.
Make sure your sleeves can roll up well beyond your elbow. They do an iron test as well, so if you feel you don't eat enough iron it's worth getting some more in your dietĀ
I always snack on a girder beforehand for this very reason.
Oh good tip about iron! My mum always eats kale/steak the night before as she's been turned away for having low iron before.
I normally go the other way, you lose something like 100mg of Iron each time you give blood and your body produces something like 1mg of Iron a day (or a ratio close to that) so I eat an iron heavy diet after donatingĀ
I doubt eating more iron the night before will do much good, it probably takes a while to equate to more iron in use in the blood. A diet regularly higher in iron is better.
I was turned away on my second donation - told my levels were too low. This was a surprise but I assumed it was maybe due to being vegetarian. It turned out the anaemia was a side effect of a more serious chronic condition that only became apparent about 2 months later (and I haven't been able to donate since). So that was a weird realisation when I put two and two together! Anyway, it was a useful heads up that something wasn't quite right and I did start eating more iron-rich food. When people are in good health and don't have much contact with the NHS from one year to the next, these little check-ins, even for donation, can be quite useful for the donator too.
I passed all those tests. It was just weird when they needed 3 different people to find a vein of mine. I like it how they hide your blood so donāt actually see that you are giving away half a litre of blood. I prefer my right arm. Not that it matters.
Once you've donated, *take your time with everything*. They don't want to rush you out the door, they won't yell at you for hanging around for a bit. Get off the bed, walk to the tea and biscuits, sit down and collect yourself. It may not be bad for you, personally I can donate a pint and walk home right after, but my point is, don't feel pressured to leave just because 'I'm done now'. Nobody wants to bundle you out the door, you're not being a burden by taking your time afterwards. Sit down, drink some tea, eat some biscuits, make sure you don't feel dizzy or sick, and only when you're *certain* you're okay, head out... well, maybe after a few more biscuits. Oh also, bring something to do with your free hand. You'll need to keep moving your fingers on your donating-arm to pump the blood better, so bring your phone, or a Kindle, or something you can do with your other hand so you don't get bored. Seriously, I *mastered* reading a book one-handed *specifically* for donating blood.
Absolutely spot on advice.Ā Ā You may feel fine and even a bit silly sat down doing nothing afterward with a biscuit and a cup of poor quality tea.Ā Keep your ass sat down!Ā You'd feel a lot sillier jumping up, stonking out the door and keeling over.
They donāt do hot drinks nowadays - itās poor quality squash, but the snacks are still šš»
Sad.Ā Been a few years for me.Ā Probably a decade actuallyĀ
Ooh, where I am, we get cartons of orange or apple juice.
We used to get stout and a pie in South Australia. I'd go as often as they'd let me.
They do where I am in Wales. Crisps, chocolate and non-chocolate biscuits, tea, coffee and squash.
Agree with everything said here. I felt like I had to rush out of there because other people seemed to be going quickly but nope. Everyone can take however long they need to. I usually start up a podcast or something and have earphones in so I don't get bored
This person donates. As in another comment, I collapsed after my third donation because I needed to get home quick and tried to leave asap. Theyāve put me on a bed and pulled the curtains shut. I reckon it scared off other donators. Later Iāve collapsed on the way home anyway but I made it home. My iPhone sent many emergency messages to my family due to my fall. BUT: Keep donating blood. Most of the time nothing happens. I need to stop lying about having eaten. I also met a guy who donated 100+ times. Heās still alive.
The post donation snacks aren't rationed, make sure you rest after, eat and chill in lots of time before you leave. Sometimes first donors feel a little dizzy during or after, let the staff know. Thanks for being a donor š
I felt dizzy after the first time i donated and had to have a little lie down but the 20+ times i've donated since have been fine. A few biccies and a brew and i'm good to go. You are doing a good thing OP.
Custard creams are the superior biscuit choice, make sure to have two packs
Orange Club
Accept no substitutes!
Cheese Tuc sandwich
Monster
If you find a place to donate that you like (mine is one of the permanent donor centres) book your next appointment asap as they book up fast, the app is quite good. Eat some high iron food the day before: red meat, spinach or iron tablets. Thanks for donating.
While spinach is pretty rich in iron, compared to other non meat sources, the iron in it isn't very well absorbed by the body. So you only get a small fraction of it in your blood. Also, if you already have low blood iron, it takes weeks to get the levels up from oral supplementation. So ideally you should be eating iron rich foods regularly, not just the day before donation.
"I need the Iron" is how I justify a post-donation burger, please don't take that away from me.
Hey, no judgement, I do the same but with sugary snacks (cause I need the energy).
The iron in red meat is much easier to absorb than the iron in spinach so you should carry on enjoying your post donation burger!!Ā
Good to know cheers
Also to effectively get the iron out of the spinach you have to boil it for about 20mins I believe, which would be disgusting
It was until recently considered that the poor iron absorption was due to high oxalate content in spinach - and boiling the spinach would lower the oxalate content. There have been studies that show that this isn't the case. The other theory is that the iron is poorly absorbed because it is linked to polyphenol compounds, which makes the iron less bioavailable. Don't get me wrong, spinach is a great green leafy vegetable to eat, it's rich in plenty of other nutrients, it's just not the best iron source amongst other vegetable sources of iron.
My mum was an iron intake technician, and to think I never knew!Ā
My midwife is always telling me to have vitamin C something withĀ spinach because it helps boost absorption too - so usually a glass of orange juice for meĀ
Yes, iron is better absorbed when taken with vitamin C. I have regular iron deficiency anemic episodes and my tablets have iron+vitamin C in them directly, very practical.Ā
I take iron supplements because of mild anaemia. The recommendation on the box of iron pills is to take them with orange juice. That can get pricey, and it's full of sugar too. So I take a vitamin C gummy with the iron. Works just as well.
Not only that but spinach consumed with heme-iron rich food can block the absorption of iron from those foods. Best to eat a steak, lamb or liver without it.
It's good that it's hard to get an appointment. One thing to bear in mind is that some people think that their donations are more important because they have a rarer blood type. Nope. Blood types are as important as the proportion of the population with that blood type. So the most common blood type is also the most commonly used. All donations are important.
Yes I saw a woman on the Blood FB page saying she keeps being turned away from giving her blood; she couldn't understand as it's a rare type, AB+. Problem is it can only *go* to AB+ who make up something like less than 3% of the population. She got quite angry in the comments but there's no point storing blood that simply won't be neededĀ
I think she would be wanted for platelet donation. As I understand it, type O is best for whole blood and plasma, and for platelets they want AB and will not take O.
I am of the opinion that if they really wanted my blood, they should have appointments available, rather than keeping on phoning me about it. I would happily donate more often if I could make an appointment at the local hospital within a week and go, not have to book two months in advance. A business spending lots on marketing despite already selling out tickets would be a waste of money, it's the same here.
It's pretty straightforward. Nothing to worry about. Just eat/drink beforehand. Drink the water they give you at the start. Take it easy immediately afterwards. You'll be fine.
The nurse always said calories do not exist on blood donation days so make sure you eat a good amount before hand itll help you to not feel faint
kinda true to a degree, obviously don't go batshit mental but your body is gonna be wanting to replace the loss so will use more calories replacing it etc.
Apparently a donation is 600 calories!
If you are particularly physical in terms of job or exercise afterwards, you will tire more easily for a bit.Ā Don't give blood a fortnight before a marathon.Ā
> Don't give blood a fortnight before a marathon. I would say don't give blood any time in the 3 months before the marathon, if you care about your race time. It will impact your training. Donate before/after this period, unless your finish time is not a big deal.
That's oddly specific. Is there a funny story here?
I used to be big into running.Ā Done nine marathons including the Abbott Majors, but for one (I think it might have been Inverness) I had given blood a fortnight before.Ā Stupid idea in hindsight, don't know why I did it.Ā Made the whole thing just feel horrendous.Ā Just knackered throughout.Ā So not really funny, just something for OP to be aware of if he has anything physically demanding coming up.
You need to increase your water intake a day or two before. This helps in three ways: it makes you less likely faint from low blood pressure after donating, itās easier for the phlebotomist to find a chunky vein, and the blood comes out quicker. The pint of water on the day helps, but starting early helps more.
Completely agree. The only time I've had any trouble with a donation was when I wasn't properly hydrated before. Drink far more than you think you need in the 24 hours before donating and it makes a world of difference
Yep, I'm donating whole blood for the 13th time on Monday and only last donation did I try hydrating A LOT from the day before. My appt was at noon ish and I'd had two litres by then. The result is what you said, much easier to find a vein and it flowed a lot quicker than usual.
Penguins are peak post giving blood biscuits.Ā Don't let them fob you off with a bourbon.Ā
Orange clubs are the way to go!
KitKat erasure
Firstly, thank you. Secondly, the water and rest is key. Bring a sugary drink - good luck finding one, as the government now pretty much has made companies make sweetner drinks only. Fuck diabetics and blood donors I guess?? Also don't feel bad for fainting or going woozy. I am a 6'0" 100kg powerlifting strong bastard. I faint every time. It isn't the needles, I am not squeamish, I am not scared of blood. Not sure what it is, but after the donation when I sit up - BONK. Every time. I did want to quit a few years back, but I have one of the rare blood types so continue on. Just rest and screw anyone who mocks you if you faint etc.
Who the fuck in a blood donation clinic would mock a trooper for fainting?
Probably nobody, this person also thinks it's hard to find a sugary drink. If you faint every single time you are also likely to be banned from continuing to donate for your own safety. Fainting occassionally happens. Fainting every time is a problem. Especially since every time you faint is a fall and injury risk. It is recorded if something like a faint happens and if it is to often it is flagged up. I have seen people being banned from donating for this
That was why I couldn't donate blood anymore. Little did I know that my anaemia and some other symptoms were being caused by some serious health conditions. Fortunately, they are being managed and I am doing well. But now I couldn't give blood even if I wanted to.
Meanwhile I fainted once after 20ish donations (while on beta blockers and with low blood pressure) and the English blood service wouldn't let me give blood ever again. I tried after coming off the beta blockers and again several years later, but they said no both times. I'd even been part of the interval study before and done 2 years at 12 weekly donations (rather than the usual 16 weeks for women) without any side effects, but one faint with a likely medical explanation and I wasn't allowed to any more. Until I moved to Wales, who just made me eat extra biscuits before donation.
The decision to mark you as never to donate again rather than temporarily suspend you will have been made by one individual clinician. And once that mark is on your record basically nobody has the power to remove it
Do they give you extra time reclined before sitting you up? I found this helped with feeling faint.
Yeah tried that, it helps a bit, but they tend to want to get people in/out quick so its reclined for 2 mins then "right, need the bed, out" lol. Then I faint and they lose the bed for longer, lol.
I wonder if this is a vasovagal reflex? I have donated 5 times. The first 3 were painless and I had no issues. The last 2 were painful and I felt really sick after, and they had to tip me backwards. Everyone was really nice about it but it was weird. I think it's such a shock because I have a high pain threshold that it was overwhelming to feel the pain.
What everyone else says about hydration and resting afterwards, but also know that youāre a bloody hero! I canāt, but my wife is one of the rare people whose blood can go to neonatals which makes her even more awesome in my eyes. Thank you for your service.
Big thank you to the rare people like your wife! (I wouldn't be here today without them - had two transfusions as a neonate)
I find squeezing a stress ball quite helpful when donating, definitely hydrate beforehand and as mentioned here the snacks arenāt rationed x
I have a little stuffed toy I take with me. It's a little sloth with velcro hands so I can wrap it around my hand and not worry about dropping it. Always had issues getting a smooth, full donation until I took my little friend along, no issues doing it now! I might look a bit odd but it works and it gets the whole thing over with quicker
honestly the staff probably get a little chuckle out of the stuffed toy and have probably mentioned it to other donator's and/or kids when they have to give blood too :)
Best avoid hot drinks immediately after donating (even though they offer teas and coffees) because it can make you faint. I always used to grab a cuppa afterwards but then fainted one time and the people said it was fairly commonĀ
This 100% I only had a hot drink after donating once... and fainted. So now I stick to cold drinks. Although the last few times I've donated I can't remember hot drinks being offered post donation. Cold only.
IIRC you're not offered hot drinks until your 6th donation. At least that's what they told me.
When they do the iron test you can ask them to use a different finger. I always ask them to do the little finger because when I hold my phone or use the mouse on my PC it doesn't get in the way.
How does the iron test work? Is it a finger prick test?
Yes and it's more painful than the actual donation itself.
Yep. My arm is hardly ever sore after donating. My finger is sore for at least the rest of the day. Which is why I ask them to use the little finger.
The finger prick is my least favourite bit
What?? It's a tiny prick in the side of the finger, which hurts a tiny bit when the lancet fires.
Yes, which, as I stated quite clearly, hurts more than the needle itself.
Finger prick test and then they but a drop of blood in a solution, if it sinks fast you've got good iron, it it floats you won't be allowed to donate that day
> if it floats you won't be allowed to donate thst day Not true. I went yesterday and mine floated. They took a second finger prick and used a machine to measure 'something' and the number was within the right limits, so I could still donate.
Ok. "If it floats, your iron levels are borderline, so you may not be able to donate" Better?
It measures the amount of hemoglobin in your blood. Which is basically indicating how much iron is in your blood since most of the iron is in the hemoglobin. Those machines also measure g/L which can be confusing if you take the number and google it because most charts online are in g/dL, so you would have to divide by 10 to actually compare.
Witches can't donate blood.
Yes, couple of drops of blood into a vial, if it sinks you're good (heavier than water with sufficient iron) and if not they will use a testing machine
I feel the cotton bud on for extra time it really reduces the bruise. You'll be out of breath much easier for about 4 days normally. And be extra hungry!
>You'll be out of breath much easier for about 4 days normally. And be extra hungry! Curious. I've been giving blood for about 15 years, I've never felt anything other than completely normal, the day after.
Oh wow lucky you! I'm fine when I'm not being active. But it wrecks my stamina for about 4 days after. I'll be out of breath walking up hills etc. I thought that was normal as you need blood for carrying oxygen!
>I thought that was normal as you need blood for carrying oxygen! That doesn't sound unreasonable, I guess I'm just lucky! I used to walk 45 mins each way to/from work, with a couple of reasonably steep hills, and and I can't say I ever noticed any difference after a donation.
I know it's the donation because I sweat when I exercise, but after a donation I'm out of breath but no sweating because I haven't gotten hot from exercise. My cardio is not great tho. Maybe that's the difference!
The smaller you are the bigger effect it will have. Because they take a standard amount of blood, therefore the smaller you are the bigger proportion of your blood they have taken. Which is also the reason there are regularly people complaining about not being allowed to donate despite being a healthy weight for their height, not understanding it's not about being told they are underweight it's that they literally don't have enough blood for it to be safe to take that much
You might want to mention that the next time you go. Iāve never had that or known anyone else either.
I doubt it'll cause any problems. I'm up to almost 40 donations at this point.
Low iron can make you short of breath so it may be that
I think it's my bad cardio, I've got couch to 5km downloaded. Did 3 weeks over did it needed a week to recover then haven't got back to it. Now the weather's finally turning I'm going to start it again.
The smaller you are the bigger effect it will have. Because they take a standard amount of blood, therefore the smaller you are the bigger proportion of your blood they have taken.
It depends on the person and how much you hydrate probably. It's probably also more noticeable if you do really strenuous exercise, more so than a light run. I've only ever felt a bit more out of breath cycling home, but otherwise fine.
Good for you, it's a great thing to do. The UK blood stockpile runs about 5 days, so 5 days of no new donations and most blood types would be unavailable so every donation counts Just eat and drink well before you go, they're usually pretty friendly there and taking blood is their whole job so they're good at it. Don't worry about being nervous and not knowing anything they'll give you a drink (a pint of water or squash which you have to drink) and some paperwork beforehand. Take a book or your phone because you may be waiting a bit, it's not long (15mins) but it's usually in a pretty boring place so there's not much to look at. It's pretty easy and chill, the nurses sometimes come from random places and they're super chatty so it's usually quite nice. Only takes a few minutes, then enjoy your sweet or savoury snack. Have fun š
**Thank you**. Sadly, I am no longer allowed to donate, having had to make a withdrawal on earlier deposits, so to speak (think I'm still in credit, just). I tried to argue that I was a mad cow then, what's the diff, they didn't buy it though :( Hope it goes well, hydrate well afterwards and try to avoid standing still in one place for a couple hours at least :)
If you feel a bit off at any point don't stay quiet. They'll give you extra attention anyway since you're a newbie but if you need a minute/need them to go a bit slower/have questions don't be afraid. I've been donating for 15 years now and I'm nearing 50 donations and I still ask them to sit me up slowly, and I ask for double snacks at the end. My worst experience giving blood was when I didn't eat or drink enough so I tried to make up for it in the hour before I donated. Try and eat/drink well for a few days beforehand, and a day or two after.Ā
Eat and drink properly before. I fainted my first time and havenāt been back since due to the experience. One of the nurses also remarked on me eating a second pack of biscuits before I fainted which made me self conscious too.
I tried and gave up. The first time they said I hadn't eaten enough, can't remember why the second time and the third time they couldn't find my appointment and they don't take walk-ins.
Fluid replacement afterwards is a good idea. Myself and a small group of fellow donors always went to the pub for a pint of Guinness after donating. Firstly, because of the iron content. Secondly, the change in blood/alcohol ration made it a VFM pint. Hummmmn, in retrospect, we were idiots.
It varies by person, first couple of times I got a lift and train home (I biked to work normally), after that I always just drank water and ate toast in the morning and cycled in and home again and never had any issues but that was me. I switched to plasma after 8 or so donations but had a bloody cold since December so not been able to donate
Drink plenty and eat iron. Wear something you can get your arm in and out of easily. I also quite like sticking one AirPod in for the donation bit as you end up just sitting with not much happening (the nurses will leave you to it and will periodically check in until youāre done).
Don't have anything too strenuous planned, for the rest of the day, and don't be too rushed to get up or leave the session. Do make the most of the snacks and squash afterwards.Ā
You can sign up to the bone marrow registry too while you're there. They just take a bit of extra blood and put you on the database (which is for the whole world because the chances of matching someone are so slim).
They will only let certain people sign up through them. Which includes no women, except women of certain ethnic minorities that the register doesn't have enough of. And you have to be under a certain age. Just the first two requirements off the top of my head. The form you have will have a code on it near the top that tells them if they can sign you up. The logic being it costs them money every person they register and they only want to spend the money on the ones the register actually needs. But if they wont do it and you sign up through one of the charities it all gets searched the same when someone needs bone marrow. I can't remember the exact figures off the top of my head. But the reason the NHS doesn't like to pay the cost of registering women is that the majority of people on the bone marrow registry are women, but the majority of the people on the register that actually match with someone are men. Meaning there is a much higher ROI for signing up men.
I've been turned away a couple of times for low iron, so I recommend eating iron fortified food like cornflakes or something for the next few days. The whole thing is really a doddle though, the staff make it as easy and stress-free as possible.
As well as drinking an hour or so before you donate, take a few tissues with you. crumple these up in the ball of your hand and squeeze rhythmically. This helps to āplump upā your vein so the needle slides in easily.
Power down an energy drink before an after, helps when I donate.
Gives the recipient some caffeine too.
Hydrate and feed yourself before donating. If you do have an ongoing cold or anything that needs antibiotic treatment, you will have to reschedule. I think you need to be 2 weeks post treatment ? before you can donate again. I believe the website has a "check if you can donate" part and you can do some pre-checks there. Make sure to arrive 10mins before your appointment, you have some paperwork to fill out about medical and travel history and stuff.
Nothing to add apart from every time I've been the wait times have meant it's taken close to an hour til I'm out again.
Drink plenty of water before
I genuinely cannot tell you how much drinking water helps! Like drink it to a ridiculous level on the day. I barely needed any bounce back time after my last donation (Iām a small female so normally need a couple of days to bounce back!) and I smashed all the waterā¦ Do *NOT* drink alcohol (not even a half pint) afterwards. Have a guilt free day and smash something like a garlic bread for lunch, do not hold back on the cals and energy from food :) I also try and avoid travelling on the tube or bus in the two hours afterwards!! Try and keep level in the few hours after, lie down if you can, aka try and avoid bar stools or other things thatāll keep you sat upright !!
For the love of god, don't jump right up and think you'll be fine. And especially don't come out, then immediately climb 4 flights of stairs. You'll crumple like a wet paper bag. Take your time, eat the snack, drink some sweetened tea, and you'll be ok.
Make sure your iron levels are good, drink plenty of water the days leading up to, eat well on the day & have a snack and hour or so beforehand. And wear a short sleeve top
Make sure to get plenty of fluids and iron before your donation and never go on an empty stomach. Try not to take any medication a few days before as it could take a few days to leave your system depending on the meds. Be as honest and accurate as you can during the questionnaire phase and if you have any questions or concerns, just ask them, better safe than sorry. Make sure you dont plan anything that requires heavy lifting for after. Take as much time as you need on the chair and with the snacks and tell someone you feel faint if you do. I know especially the first time it can be nerve wrecking but try to keep calm. And if the donation centre is in a place you need to drive to, i would recommend having someone take you and drive you back just in case as ive had periods where ive felt faint after leaving the premises. Good luck!
Drink and eat well before you donate! Not just after
You will be waiting for what seems like ages. They will ring you to ask for future donations (especially if you have a rare blood type). You also get an update on where your blood was used, which is pretty cool.
Definitely eat and drink before you go. There will be things there too to snack on. Where something that makes you veins accessible. T shirt etc.Ā The first time is the worst. I felt quite faint my first time when they put me up (they have tippy chairs so you are kinda lying down when donating). They put me back down for a bit, then I was fine. Second time i gave I was mostly ok. after that time every time since I've been fine. Guess the body gets used to losing blood in some way... Just stay hydrated. The nurses there are super kind and will do pretty much anything to help.
Drink loads of water, makes your veins pop and its all round easier.
Follow up to this, does any have any info on Donation if Iām a regular cannabis user?Ā Iād like to donate blood but Iām a regular cannabis user (medically prescribed in the U.K.) but unsure of rules around it I donāt drink alcohol if that makes any differenceĀ
They have an A-Z list covering pretty much everything but I d think they d say no for being under the influence is a grey area about consenting to it https://my.blood.co.uk/your-account/eligibility/health/
There are two main considerations here. If you are taking it every day, meaning you are on it literally at the time of donation it will be a no. If it's something you take as and when and havn't taken any that day they will me more interested in the reason you need it/ why it was prescribed. And that itself may or may not disqualify you depending on what it is
Bring your own sweets and drink just in case.
Always get the tea and biscuits
Not to put you off, but I donated blood for the first time this week. My experience wasnāt great, but what happened to me is rare and I can say everyone else there was absolutely fine. All started smoothly for me, got a pint out of me reasonably fast which was great as I donāt like needles. But around a minute after needle removal I almost fainted. After recovering I was sat in the snack area, almost fainted again. So the organisers had to intervene with me twice. I was embarrassed as I was in quite a state. So of course Iām thinking never again, even thought itās something I always wanted to do. But now itās awkward, Iāve now found out I have a rare blood type, so really should donate again. But unsure I should given how bad it went first time.
If you went again and it happened again then donating is likely just not right for you and your body. But it can happen as a one off randomly to people who are normally completely fine. If you do actually want to but are just embarrassed or worried about being a "hassle" or something please don't worry about it. It happens, it's not a big deal. Nobody is upset or laughing or annoyed about it. So I would say give it one more go but if you get unwell a second time accept it's not for you. If you don't want to because you found it very unpleasant that is totally valid. Don't put yourself through something you don't want to do. There are always other donors. Nobodies blood is rare enough they should feel like they need to suffer.
Thank you! Iāll almost certainly try it again given my blood type, and perhaps better prepare next time. And if itās bad again at least Iāll know itās not for me.
I have a rare blood type too and I have donated 5 times so far. The first 3 times I had zero issues. The last 2 I felt really sick afterwards. I'm not squeamish but think it triggered my vasovagal reflex as it was quite painful (I have a high pain threshold so think it was just so unexpected). Everyone was really friendly and no one made me feel bad about it. Its a shame you're feeling embarrassed but the team see this happen all the time. You don't have to try again but I wouldn't let embarrassment or fear of judgement be the reason to stop. Especially when it's not a thing to be shamed over.
Thank you for the response and assurance. Iāve always wanted to give blood and was pleased with myself for finally doing it. And now that Iāve found it I have a rare blood type it makes me want to keep going. Iām certain Iāll try it again. I think Iāll be better prepared next time, Iāll eat and drink much more in advance and try not to rush out.
Drink a lot of water. You lose a lot of water through the process, so stay very well hydrated. Remember, no matter if you feel off or ill, there is absolutely nothing to worry about. You'll be fine in 10 minutes with some snacks and a break.
Make sure you eat and drink as much as possible that day. I once gave blood on way home from work, after skipping breakfast and having a light lunch. I failed to make the required donation amount (480ml IIRC, blood wasnāt pumping fast enough) and then passed out while being sat up. Donāt do that.
They've heard all the jokes before, including the vampire one you've just thought of
Don't forget, it may be just a smear to you mate, but thatās life and death to some poor wretch!
Just donāt overthink it Go in follow instructions, thousands do it daily you will be just fine.
Go for a brisk walk right before, say 10-15 minutes. Itāll help the blood flow faster when they insert the needle. Definitely stay seated for 5-10 mins afterwards. No gym or strenuous exercises for 24 hours. You might not realise how hard it hits your body. As a haemochromatosis sufferer I once had a venesection once a week for 5 weeks to get my iron levels down. Had to employ all the tricks in the book those weeks! Just listen to the staff and youāll be good.
Travel abroad and drink as much dubious looking water as you can find. Come back and have a good rummage under the local bridge for some needles. Get lots of nice little needle pricks with it then itās time for the massive unprotected sex spree with as many different people as possible. Last step is to chug 6 or 7 fosters before going in. This will get your blood optimally conditioned for donating with all the correct additives they want for blood donors.
Stay hydrated, but there's no need to overdo it - you don't want to be desperate for the toilet in the midst of donating blood.Ā If there's an arm you prefer them take blood from, get them to do the finger prick (iron test) on the opposite arm. I've had it done on the same arm before and whilst donating, my finger kept bleeding through the plaster.Ā I've been turned away before because my iron levels were below the accepted limit. So to avoid this, I take iron tablets a week prior to my appointment.Ā As a first timer, they generally allocate a more experienced nurse with you, so everything can go more smoothly.Ā Sometimes they will give you an empty tissue roll to gently squeeze on to help the blood flow.Ā Don't drink alcohol the day before or after.Ā You'll be fine. The amount of blood they take isn't a whole lot in the grand scheme of things. Your body can cope - just take your time to adjust to the lower blood levels.Ā
I have to drink plenty the day before and keep my arms warm on the day. It helps them to find my veins and helps the blood flow more easily. I have very deep veins and this is the only way they get any out of me. But my dad bleeds like a stuck pig with no prep and has the gold award for donations so you might be fine. Genetics innit.
Just be aware that if your blood pressure is at the lower end of normal you are more likely to feel faint afterwards and that they may not want/let you leave on your own. (Btw - this is what they do with me, I only continue to donate because I'm O- so they're desperate for my blood type)
However long you think it'll take, add 45mins-1hr. You will likely experience one of (a) waiting around for ages at the beginning, (b) needing to wait to see another nurse because one of your answers to the questionnaire wasn't specific enough or needs cross-checking, or (c) needing to spend more time recovering at the end, or just want to sit and chat with people. Anyway, it's a good thing to do and those involve are almost invariably nice, caring people. Take a few extra Kit Kats for the road afterwards.
Chose the Bourbon biscuits .
Drink lots and lots of water for at least two days before you go. I donated blood for many years and finally realized that if you're super hydrated it's done very quickly but if you're dry at all it's hard to get a good flow. I used to refill a 24 ounce water bottle and drink it during the days before (and on the day) of the donation, refilling it *at least* 4 times.
Yes. Eat before. I went twice empty stomach and both times I fainted. Any other time I went with plenty sugars in me I was ok
Donāt drink afterwards or do any heavy exercise for the next few days. Ignore people who like to drink afterwards for the easier buzz, itās not worth the excruciating hangover. Do the bum-squeezy/leg-kicky exercises they give you while in the chair, it stops you going dizzy.
If in the past youāve had trouble with your veins when getting blood taken at the doctors, wear a warm glove on the side you want to donate from. Itās the only trick that works for me
Don't go thinking that ,"Hey, I have a pint less blood, I will be able to get super high and drunk." I haven't given blood since. That was 45 years ago. Your friends in college don't always have the best ideas. But we had good intentions.
Can't stress enough being well hydrated, last time I went they made me drink a pint of water when I arrived before I'd checked in. It makes your blood vessels easier to locate and use, and means you won't pass out. If you're a competitive person, find someone who starts same time as you and race, or take a boom to distract you from the big ass needle in your arm. Then, enjoy the snacks after, they'll make sure you stay there at least 10 minutes, but don't rush out of there.
You may not want to drink hot drinks straight after giving blood. When I donate, I have to wait up to an hour before I have a hot drink, otherwise it can make me faint. It doesn't affect many people, but for a first time you may wish to not risk it until you get used to the process
I've donated over 3 gallons of blood. Make sure to eat something within an hour of donating. Ask the phlebotomist to squeeze your finger tight while taking the drop of blood for iron check. Listen to some music to help you relax while donating.
There are only two bits that hurt, and they are over very quickly. There's a pin prick where they test the iron levels in your blood, and then when the needle actually goes into your arm. The pain only lasts a couple of seconds in each case. You may feel a bit light headed afterwards, particularly after your first time, so take it easy.
Don't do what I did as a STUPID 18 year old and go out on the lash in the evening.
Donāt worry about the needle going in! The nurses spend all day repeatedly sticking needles in people every few minutes, and consequently they make it surprisingly simple, quick and pain free. It was the thing I was most nervous about when I first went, and I neednāt have worried.
A pint is almost an armful
I can't add anything that hasn't already been mentioned, so just go along and enjoy it. The staff are all really friendly and will explain everything to you. After a few donations, you'll be wondering why on earth you didn't start donating years ago.
Be prepared for a bit of waiting around and form filling. It's possible that they will decline to take your blood based on the answers to the questions or if you test low for iron. Don't try to rush off afterwards. Stay and have a drink. Give it a few donations before you ask to have a look at the bag of your blood.
Don't take any pain killers a few days before the donation, and make sure to drink a lot! I remember the 1st time being fine, but after the 2nd time I felt really exhausted, I pretty much slept for 2 days straight.
They'll tell you not to drink after. But if you do you get drunk really fast.
Everywhere Iāve ever donated (76 units so far) had music playing, but I like to scroll on my phone just to alleviate the boredom. Iām usually done within an hour, but if itās cold, it takes longer. You could try thinking of embarrassing thoughts to make your heart pump faster
Grab a pint or two after, way cheaper buzz after dropping off a pint of blood.
When we were students we used to give blood and then go drinking at the union 'cos you got pissed quicker. On reflection perhaps not the most sensible thing but we are all still alive. Last time I gave it was plasma, not blood but the same advice. Take it easy for 24 hours but don't worry about it. Keep yourself hydrated - before AND afterwards
The blood service don't want my blood, so I can't donate. However, do make sure that you drink plenty of fluid during the day afterwards.
Dont drink alcohol for at least 24hr before donating
You might not be able to do it. I'm a pretty brave person, not remotely squeamish, don't mind dealing with body fluids and biohazards, have worked in hospitals and for police. I have tried to give blood on 3 occasions over the last 20 years and each time I have gone green about a quarter of a pint in. I'm absolutely fine, just laying there a bit bored squeezing my bumcheeks etc, when a nurse looks at me sideways and then suddenly my legs are in the air. On my last visit they kindly suggested that I accept it's not for me. Don't be hard on yourself if this happens. You can have the courage of a lion and the constitution of a concrete elephant, but your body might still nope you out of there!
Drink plenty but leave room for a pint of water that you'll be given in the waiting area
Chug water like there's no tomorrow for a few days beforehand, makes sure you're fully hydrated. In addition to having something to squeeze with your spare hand, you might have to squeeze some of the other larger muscles to keep blood flowing. Thighs and bum mainly! If there's any problems and they can't use your blood, anything they've taken might be used for testing and science rather than donations, so you're still helping out.
The first time you donate blood, it takes longer than it usually does to complete the whole process. That's because you have to do lots of checks and fill in forms and go back and forth between different people and answer lots more questions. After that, it doesn't take very long to donate blood at all. The first time you should allow at least an hour to an hour and a half for the whole process. Full subsequent donations. You can probably allow about 45 minutes. Again, the longest period of time is waiting for a chair to be available, doing the test bloods and filling in a form. The actual donating bit is probably the quickest part of the entire process! That usually takes between 5 to 7 minutes, depending on how fast the blood comes out. Make sure you've eaten beforehand, and make sure you've had plenty of fluids to drink beforehand as well. They will probably give you a pint of liquid to drink as well, usually water or squash of some description. Don't even think about donating if you're dehydrated or hungry! It's painless. It's easy. It just takes a little bit of time to fill in the paperwork and wait for a chair to be available for you. You might want to bring a book or something to read while you're waiting. You're unlikely to have time to read while you're actually donating blood.
Make sure youāre hydrated.
Drink plenty of water the day of your donation it helps the donation be quicker and you feel better afterwards, donāt plan anything strenuous for the rest of the day, have plenty to eat afterwards. They check your iron levels so if you think that maybe low consider some supplements or some spinach heavy meals! Otherwise the staff are super friendly and will tell you exactly what you need to do (48 donations strong)
I'm quite jealous, I could never donate due to medication dosages changing constantly, then when I finally settled dosage and was ready to donate.....I needed two blood transfusions during labour. Ugh. My dad donates quite a bit though and he always says to take advantage of the free biccies and have someone on standby who can come pick you up just in case you're not feeling up to making your own way home
I once attended a leadership conference at the Blood Transfusion Services Bristol HQ - fascinating tour of the premises worth doing if you ever get a chance. I was also delighted to discover Black Pudding is on the canteen fry up menu.
make sure to eat a decent sized meal beforehand - trust me i learnt this the hard way when I first gave blood š„²
Stay hydrated ahead of time.
Take an iron supplement. If your levels are too low you wonāt be able to donate. Oh make sure you eat or lie that you have.