5 Things to know before donating blood | World Blood Donor Day 2025

Donating blood is a selfless act of generosity that can save lives. World Blood Donor Day (Observed on 14th June every year) reminds us of this every year. If you are someone who has never donated blood but have been considering doing so, this may be the push you need to start. You might have questions or concerns.

Don't worry. In this blog, we will walk you through five key things you should know before giving blood. We'll discuss who qualifies, preparing for it, what to expect during the process, and why it's worth giving. By the time you're done reading, you'll be confident and informed about making this life-saving act.

What Is World Blood Donor Day and Why Is It Important?

World Blood Donor Day is an international campaign initiated by the World Health Organization (WHO) to promote awareness of the demand for safe blood and to express gratitude to voluntary, non-remunerated blood donors. Blood is required for surgery, trauma treatment, and cancer therapy among other conditions. However, many nations continue to experience shortages.

By giving blood, you join a global community of lifesavers. One unit of donated blood has the potential to save three lives.

1. Who Can Donate Blood?

Not everybody can donate blood, and that's okay too. There are simple guidelines to ensure the protection of both the donor and the recipient.

Simple Eligibility Criteria:

• Age: 18-65 years (in most nations).
• Weight: At least 50 kg (110 lbs).
• Hemoglobin level: At least 12.5 g/dL.
• Good health: You must be in good health and not have an infection or fever at the time of donation.

Who Should Not Donate (Temporarily or Permanently)?

• If you've experienced fever, cold, flu, or COVID-19 symptoms in the last few weeks.
• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or having heavy menstrual flow.
• If you have low hemoglobin, recent tattoos or piercings (within 6 months), or recent surgery.
• If you suffer from chronic illnesses such as HIV, Hepatitis B/C, or are at high risk for STDs.

Tip:
Be truthful at the pre-donation screening. The medical team will inquire about your health, travel, and lifestyle to know if you can donate or not.

2. What Do You Need to Do Before Donating Blood?

It is easy to prepare for blood donation but crucial nonetheless. Taking care beforehand will make the process easier.

Preparation Tips Before Donation:

• Eat a nutritious meal: Skip greasy or fried food prior to donating, as it impacts the quality of the blood.
• Hydrate: Have 2-3 glasses of water an hour prior to your visit.
• Don't drink or smoke: At least 24 hours prior to giving.
• Get a good night's sleep: Obtain 7-8 hours of rest prior to your visit.
• Bring your ID: This will be required for registration at the blood center or camp.
• What to Wear
• Wear a loose-sleeved or short-sleeved shirt, so that staff members can easily access your arm.
• Do not wear tight clothing or jewelry which may hamper access.

3. What Is Involved in the Blood Donation Process?

First-time donors have many apprehensions about the process. But the fact is—it's easy, safe, and quick.

Step-by-Step Process:

Step 1: Registration
You will be required to complete a form with simple information and respond to a few health-related questions.

Step 2: Health Screening
A medical professional will check your:

• Blood pressure
• Hemoglobin level (with a finger-prick test)
• Temperature and pulse

Step 3: The Donation

• You’ll lie down comfortably on a donor bed.
• A sterile needle will be inserted into a vein in your arm.
• Blood is collected in a sterile bag, and the process usually takes 8–10 minutes.
• Around 350–450 ml of blood is taken depending on your weight.

Step 4: Post-Donation Care

• You will be provided with juice, snacks, and water to aid your recovery.
• Rest for 10–15 minutes before you go home.
• One of our staff members will offer you aftercare advice.

4. What Do You Do After Giving Blood?

Post-donation care is as important as pre-donation care on how you look after yourself.
After Blood Donation Tips:

• Get plenty of rest: Steer clear of hard exercise or heavy lifting for 24 hours.
• Leave the bandage on for a minimum of 4–6 hours and don't get it wet.
• Consume iron-rich foods such as spinach, legumes, jaggery, and meat to restore your red blood cells.
• Stay hydrated: Take additional water in the next 24 hours to restore fluid loss.

In case you're feeling dizzy or light-headed, lie down and elevate your legs.
Most individuals will feel perfectly normal after donating blood, but if you become weak over a long period of time, experience bruising, or pain, call the donation center or a physician.

5. What Are the Benefits of Donating Blood?

Donating blood benefits not only others—it also has several physical benefits for you.

Physical Benefits:

1. Free mini health check-up: Hemoglobin, blood pressure, and pulse are checked every time you give blood.
2. Enhances heart health: Donating regularly can help eliminate surplus iron in the blood, which causes heart disease.
3. Stimulates blood cell production: Your body constantly strives to replace the blood, keeping your system energized.

Emotional Benefits:

1. Sense of purpose: Saving a life is an empowering and fulfilling experience.
2. Boosts mood: Engaging in selfless activities boosts happiness and a sense of belonging.

Social Benefits:
You become a role model in your family or community.
Many workplaces or colleges recognize regular donors through certificates or wellness points.

Common Myths About Blood Donation

Let’s clear up a few myths that stop many people from donating:

“I’ll feel weak or faint.”
Most donors feel fine afterward. You’ll be monitored during the process and advised to rest if needed.

“I can’t donate if I’m under medication.”
It depends on the medicine and the condition. Always check with the blood bank.

"I don't have the right blood group."
All blood groups are required! Some uncommon ones are even more precious.

How Frequently Can You Give Blood?

Men can give every 3 months (12 weeks).
Women can give every 4 months (16 weeks) because they tend to have less iron.
You may donate platelets or plasma more often if your center permits.

World Blood Donor Day 2025: Theme and How to get involved

Each year, WHO announces a theme. In recent years, the focus has been on voluntary blood donation, youth engagement, and ensuring safe blood for all.

Ways to Participate:
Donate blood yourself if you’re eligible.
Encourage friends and family to join you.
Spread awareness on social media using hashtags like #WorldBloodDonorDay #GiveBloodSaveLives
Organize or attend a blood donation drive at your workplace, school, or neighborhood.

Conclusion

Blood donation is a small action that creates a big impact. With one hour of your time, you may be able to save a life. As World Blood Donor Day draws near, it's the perfect time to look back, take action, and become a hero in another person's narrative.

Whether this is your first time or you're a frequent donor—thank you for making the world a better, healthier, and kinder place.