It's Time to Dispel These 10 Blood Donation Misconceptions

Every day, myths and misunderstandings keep generous people from donating blood—people who are actually eligible and could help save lives.

Whether you've heard you can't give because of your age, health, or even your blood type, it's time to separate fact from fiction. We're here to bust the most common blood donation myths and show you the truth behind the excuses.

Because when more people know the facts, more lives can be saved.

Claim No. 1: "I'm too old (or too young) to donate blood."

The Truth: Adults are never too old to donate blood—age is just a number! As long as standard donation requirements are met, you're good to go.

You can also begin giving blood at 16, provided you can supply signed parental or guardian consent and weigh at least 125 pounds. Seventeen-year-olds also have to weigh at least 125 pounds but don't need signed consent to donate.

RELATED: How Old Are Your Organs?

Claim No. 2: "My blood type isn't needed."

The Truth: Every blood type matters! Patients have different blood types, just like the rest of us. They can only receive blood that's compatible with their own, though, which means your blood type could be exactly what is critically needed on any given day.

Plus, while you may think your blood type isn't as valuable as say, "the universal blood type," you may be surprised to learn that the components within your blood are incredibly lifesaving. AB+ blood donors are considered "universal plasma donors," for example, while platelets from B+ donors can be transfused to nearly half the population in the United States!

Want to know more about your blood type and who you can help the most? Visit our Blood Types hub and find your type!

Claim No. 4: "OBI has lots of blood donors and doesn't need me."

The Truth: Did you know that only 3% of eligible Americans give blood? That small group supports an entire nation's needs!

So while it may seem small, imagine what an increase of just a single percent would do for people all over the country. Simply put, blood shortages would be a thing of the past.

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Claim No. 5: "It takes a long time to donate blood!"

The Truth: It takes about 10-15 to donate a unit of whole blood — that's it! And you can save yourself even more time by taking care of your pre-screening questions on the day of your donation before you come in.

Factoring in check-in, health screening and a short rest after your donation, the entire visit usually takes less than an hour.

Have a little more time? Our communities are always in need of plasma and platelet donations, and depending on your blood type, you could be an ideal candidate to give one of these lifesaving blood components. We also encourage our regular whole blood donors to consider making a Power Red donation, which only takes an extra 30 minutes but allows our phlebotomists to safely collect two RBC units!

Claim No. 6: "It's OK because blood can be stored a really long time."

The Truth: Well here's a common misconception that's wildly untrue! Blood actually has a very limited shelf life, especially considering the different components within our blood. Platelets, for instance, have less than a week before they're no longer transfusable.

That's why there's such a regular need for donations — to effectively care for patients in need, hospitals depend on routine donations of not just whole blood, but platelets and plasma, too.

Claim No. 7: "Donating blood hurts!"

The Truth: Donating blood isn't as painful as you might think. Most donors describe the needle insertion as feeling like a quick pinch.

After that, there's usually little to no discomfort and many people find the experience easier than they expected.

Claim No. 8: "Won't I feel weak after donating?"

The Truth: Most people feel just fine after giving blood and go about their day as usual. While it's true that some donors may feel tired, that effect is typically short-lived and not severe. Staying hydrated, eating beforehand and relaxing afterward helps your body recover quickly.

Claim No. 10: "I can't give blood because I have diabetes and/or high blood pressure."

The Truth: Common medical conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure are NOT automatic disqualifiers for blood donation. If they're well-managed and you're feeling well, you're likely eligible to donate. If you have any questions, feel free to call ahead of time and discuss your situation. You can also review our Donor Eligibility Guide below!

Can I Donate If?

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