Donating plasma is not painful. There are only two very fast feelings of a pinching sensation when the needle pricks the arms to insert the needle to collect and return blood. From that point on there will not be any pain in the process of donating plasma. The entire process takes only from one and a half hours to two hours. Donating plasma saves lives and donors are heroes. Call 1-800-Give-Life to donate plasma.
Do Not Worry: Donating Plasma is Not Painful
After the slight prick of pain when the needle is inserted to collect blood, and another prick where the blood will circulate back into the body, the plasma donation process will not be painful. It is a restful experience. While the blood is being collected, the donor sits in a recliner and may watch movies the blood center provides, or read, or even do work on a laptop.
The Process of Donating Plasma
After blood leaves the body via a needle and tubing, it moves on to a part of the process called apheresis, where blood circulates to a cell-separating centrifuge and plasma is removed. The rest of the blood components are then circulated back into the body. As this process occurs the donor will not feel any pain.
Safety Concerns
The Red Cross requires that all needles used to donate plasma are sterile. Single-use needles are used during plasma donation. The plasma donor's health is not jeopardized by the needles used during plasma donation.
Requirements to Donate Plasma
The Red Cross requires that all plasma donors be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in overall good health. An abbreviated version of a physical exam is required before donation of plasma. It will take about 20 to 30 minutes.
After Donating Plasma
After donating plasma do not lift anything heavy or do any exercise for at least 24 hours. If the donor feels lightheaded, lie down and rest until the feeling goes away. Using an ice pack on the areas of needle pricks may help eliminate or reduce swelling. If any unusual problems occur after donating plasma contact a doctor or go to the emergency room.
