The Blood Matters Blog

Expectant mothers have a lot to think about ahead of their due date. Fortunately, our pregnancy and breastfeeding eligibility guide is here to address any questions you may have so that you can focus on the big day, and every one after.

Those who have fought cancer understand the importance of a blood donor, but the rules around whether they can donate themselves can be complicated.

The blood types of American presidents are not public information, leaving the blood types of many of the country's presidents to be lost to history. But here's what we do know.

Do you know your platelet count? Levels that are too high or too low can be an indicator of serious underlying issues, so it's important to know if you fall outside of a healthy range.

A common myth in blood donation, many donors believe or have been erroneously told that you can't give blood while on your period. You can! Here's everything you need to know about blood donation during menstruation, from what to monitor to what foods you can eat to boost your iron.

This summer, Global Blood Fund called on Nigerians to share how blood donation has impacted their lives. They answered with dances, poems, the written word and more: none more moving than one woman's relationship with the beautiful Mama Ikwo.

When our director of strategic engagement's beloved dog, Finley, couldn't stop bleeding, it was clear something was wrong. Soon, she would learn about von Willebrand Disease — and that platelet transfusions would be needed to save his life.

For a variety of reasons, women in the United States are receiving blood transfusions during childbirth more than ever before.

Not ready for summer to end? Donate blood from now to July 19-31 and you'll be automatically entered to win a vacation of your choice! It's time to dream big.

If you've ever wondered how many pints of blood are in the human body and how much is taken during each donation, know that you aren't alone. So let's get into it!

Our Blood Institute proudly partners with the United States military in a variety of ways.

We talk a lot about our own blood types, but what about blood types for animals like dogs and cats, horses and cows?