Types of blood donation

Type of Blood Donation

Whole blood donation is a type of blood donation where a person donates a unit of blood, which typically amounts to about 450 milliliters (one bag). This type of donation involves the collection of all blood components, including red blood cells, plasma, and platelets.
How frequently can I donate whole blood?
- Every 3 months
How long does it take?
- Around 30 minutes.
What happens to my donated blood after blood donation?
- If the blood passes all the necessary tests, it is separated into its different components, such as red blood cells, plasma, and platelets. These components are then stored separately and used to help patients with different medical needs.

Is a special type of donation where a machine is used to separate and collect specific components of the donor’s blood, and then returns the remaining back to the donor’s body. This allows donors to donate a specific component. The commonest components donated this way are platelets.
What are platelets?
- Platelets are tiny cells in your blood that form clots and stop bleeding.
How frequently can I donate platelets by apheresis?
- Every 1-2 weeks
How long does it take:
- About an hour. It takes longer than a regular donation, but it can be helpful for patients who need specific components