1. Who can donate blood?
Anyone in good health can donate blood. However, there are some basic requirements that one has to
fulfill to become an eligible blood donor.
2. What are the requirements for blood donation?
a. Age: One should be between the ages of 16 and 65;
b. Weight: One should be at least 50 kg.
c. Health: You are advised not to go for blood donation if you have a flu, cold, fever, or any
other infection. If you have a tattoo or piercing, you cannot donate for at least six months
from the procedure date.
d. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: You are advised not to donate blood if you are either
pregnant or breastfeeding. The waiting period before going for blood donation is 9 months
after giving birth, and 3 months after you stop breastfeeding.
3. Why should I donate blood?
Blood donation is an act that helps save lives. In Kenya, at least seven people need blood every ten
minutes. By donating blood, you will be doing your part to help save the lives of patients.
4. How long does a blood donation take?
The collection of blood from a blood donor takes 8-10 minutes. However, the process of blood donor
registration and brief medical pre-screening may take slightly longer depending on the number of other
blood donors also go through the process.
5. How much blood is taken during blood donation?
Approximately 1 pint (450 milliliters) of blood is drawn from the blood donor during blood donation.
This is about 8% of the average adult's blood volume.
6. Does blood donation hurt?
Blood donation is pain-free. One only feels a slight pinch when the needle used in aiding the drawing of
blood is inserted.
7. How often can I donate blood?
Females can donate blood every 4 months after their last donation and males every 3 months after their
last donation.
8. How long will it take to replenish the blood I donated?
The plasma you donate is replenished in approximately 24 hours, while it takes about four to six weeks
for your body to replace the red blood cells fully.
9. Are there tests done before donating blood?
Yes. Before donating blood, all donors get a free preliminary health screening. This is to ensure blood donors’ safety by ensuring they are fit to donate blood. These tests aid in determining a blood
donor’s blood pressure level, hemoglobin level, and blood type, among others.
10. Do I get paid when I donate?
No. blood donation is a voluntary and currently non-remunerated act in Kenya.
