History of DVT or pulmonary embolism and blood donation

No, this one is a firm stop, for your safety or the patient’s. A past DVT or lung clot generally closes blood donation, clot history and the blood thinners both defer. ## The short answer Clotting history means vascular risk plus usually lifelong anticoagulation, either of which alone stops donation. A single provoked clot (say, after surgery) years ago off all medicines, an individual question; expect caution. ## At the screening desk Tell the staff: Clot site, year, cause, and medicines. That conversation is confidential and takes a minute, it exists so the medical officer can clear you safely on the day. Everyone meets the same basics: age 18,65, weight 50 kg+, haemoglobin on target, feeling well today. Men donate every 3 months, women every 4, the rest rules, simply. Not sure about your case? Try the Can I donate? checker or read who can donate and the deferral list in plain words. Still weighing it? Is blood donation safe? and the honest side-effects list are straight answers, not brochure talk. ## The one line that matters The medical officer at the centre makes the final call on the day, with your name, your file and your actual reading in front of them. Use this page to walk in informed, not to overrule anyone.