Can I donate blood?
The basic rules in India, set by the National Blood Transfusion Council and the Drugs & Cosmetics Act. The final word is always the medical check at the blood centre, these are the gates before it.
The basics (most people pass)
- Age between 18 and 65.
- Weight 50 kg or more.
- Haemoglobin 12.5 g/dL or more (tested free at the centre).
- Normal temperature and pulse; blood pressure roughly 100–140 over 60–90.
- Generally healthy, no fever, cold or infection today.
How often?
Men: every 3 months (90 days). Women: every 4 months (120 days). Our platform hides you from matching automatically until your interval clears, you'll never be asked too early.
Common deferrals (temporary, come back later)
- Fever or infection, wait until fully recovered (usually 2 weeks).
- New tattoo or piercing, 6 months.
- Recent surgery, pregnancy or breastfeeding, as advised by the centre (childbirth: typically 1 year after delivery, once lactation has stopped).
- Malaria, 3 months after treatment in endemic areas (check with the centre).
- Recent vaccination, varies; most are fine after 24–48 hours, some need 2–4 weeks.
- Antibiotics, usually 5–14 days after the course ends.
- Alcohol in the last 24 hours.
Rare blood groups matter most. O− can help every patient but only 1 in ~20 Indians has it. Negative groups (O−, B−, A−, AB−) are chronically short in Assam's banks. If you're negative, the network needs you specifically.
Eligibility questions
I donated 2 months ago, can I donate again for a friend?
No, the safe minimum is 3 months for men, 4 for women. But you can register and be matched after your interval clears, or bring another donor.
I take regular medication, can I donate?
Often yes (e.g. thyroid or BP medication when controlled), but the doctor at the blood centre decides. Bring your prescription list.
Can I donate if I have diabetes?
Well-controlled diabetes without complications is usually acceptable. The centre doctor makes the call.
Does donating blood hurt or make me weak?
The needle pinch lasts a second; 350–450 ml is drawn (by weight) and replaced by your body within days. Eat and drink normally before and after.
How long does a donation take?
About 10 minutes on the couch, 30–45 minutes at the centre including check-up, snack and rest.