How do I find out if I’m eligible?
Most people who are in good health, at least 18 years old, and weigh at least 110 pounds may donate. Many vaccinations, tattoos, and travel plans won’t impact your eligibility!
ABOUT BLOOD DONATION
Saving lives through blood donation connects us all. When you give blood, you’re helping cancer, trauma, and surgery patients in PNW hospitals. Give today.
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO GIVE BLOOD?
Bloodworks will have you wrapped up in an hour or less, cookie in hand, with the warm feeling that you just gave local patients another shot at life.
Learn MoreCan people under 18 donate?
If you can drive a car, you can donate blood! You can donate as early as 16 with a parent’s permission. And in Oregon, no permission form needed.
What if I have low iron?
Low iron is usually temporary, and you’ll likely be able to donate again soon. On an average day, about one-in-ten donors is deferred because of a low iron level. Learn more.
What if I’m not eligible?
If you can’t give blood for local patients, you can probably donate for research or volunteer in other powerful ways.
Can’t you make that in a lab?
There’s no substitute for donated blood to fuel the human body.
Does it hurt?
All most donors feel is a slight pinch when the needle goes in.
How much time does it take?
It takes just one hour to be one in one thousand. The actual donation itself averages less than 10 minutes.
How often can I donate?
You can donate whole blood every 56 days—the blood supply runs on repeat donors.
Do you need my blood type?
Donations of all types are always needed for all types of patients. We’re thankful for every single one.
What if I don’t know my blood type?
You don’t need to know your blood type to donate blood. We’ll tell you after your first donation!
Is there really a need?
One out of every four Americans will need a blood transfusion in our lifetimes.
Can I donate if I have tattoos or piercings?
If your body art was done in a licensed shop locally or in one of 40 other approved states, there’s no wait to donate. For everything else, it’s a three-month wait.
How do I prepare for my donation?
Drink plenty of fluids and eat a good meal before your appointment.
Can I donate if I have diabetes?
If your diabetes is under control, on or off medication, you can safely donate blood.
Can I donate if I take medication?
Many medications do not impact your ability to donate blood. Check out a list of common medications and for more information, contact our Clinical Specialists by emailing [email protected].
Can I donate if I just got a vaccine?
Flu and COVID vaccines saves lives and won’t stop you from doing the same. In fact, most vaccines don’t require a waiting period before donating. Review the common vaccine list here.
Is the mad cow ban still in place?
The restrictions associated with time spent in the UK, France, and Ireland has been lifted.
Can I donate if I’ve travelled outside the U.S. recently?
Most popular travel destinations won’t impact your ability to donate blood, and our Clinical Specialists can point you in the right direction.
Can I donate if I’m a gay or bisexual man?
The FDA’s previous donor eligibility criteria based on sexual orientation, which made it challenging for gay and bisexual men to donate blood, has been eliminated. Learn more.
Who will receive my blood?
Your donations go to grateful patients in 95% of hospitals in the Pacific Northwest.
What if I have more questions?
Our Donor Care team is here to help! Call us at 800-398-7888 or send us an email.
