Can You Donate Plasma if You Have an STD?
Can You Donate Plasma or Platelets if You Have an STD? What to Know
Donating plasma or platelets is a life-changing way to contribute to help patients with severe health conditions. However, if you have a sexually transmitted disease (STD), you may wonder whether you’re eligible to donate plasma or platelets. Below, we’ll break down the criteria and factors that affect plasma donation if you have an STD.
Understanding Eligibility with an STD
Before donating plasma or platelets, it’s essential to understand the eligibility requirements. Plasma donation centers, including PlasmaSource, prioritize the safety of both donors and patients receiving plasma or platelet transfusions and plasma-derived therapies. While having an STD doesn’t automatically disqualify you from donating, certain conditions do affect eligibility.
When You Can’t Donate Plasma or Platelets
You may not be able to donate plasma or platelets if you have certain STDs that could impact the quality and safety of your donation. For instance, active infections such as HIV, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C prevent individuals from donating plasma or platelets because they can be transmitted through blood products.
If you have an active STD that could affect your plasma or platelet quality, you will be deferred from donation to protect the integrity of plasma and platelet transfusions and plasma-derived therapies.
When It’s OK To Donate Plasma or Platelets
On the other hand, not all STDs disqualify you from plasma donation. For example, individuals with HPV, herpes (without active lesions), or other non-bloodborne infections are typically still eligible to donate plasma or platelets. As long as your condition is not transmissible through blood, it is generally safe for you to donate.
It’s always best to consult with the highly trained experts at PlasmaSource. Our team will assess your specific situation and help you determine your eligibility..
Do Plasma Centers Test for STDs?
Plasma centers, including PlasmaSource, perform a thorough screening and testing process for every donor to ensure plasma and platelet safety. However, STD testing is not part of the standard plasma or platelet donation process. Plasma centers focus on testing for bloodborne infections like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV, which directly affect plasma or platelet quality.
If you are concerned about an STD, it’s essential to seek proper medical advice and testing from a healthcare provider. Plasma donation centers do not provide testing for STDs but are committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and care in their plasma and platelet screening procedures.
Ready to Take the Next Step? Determine Eligibility Today
If you’re eligible to donate plasma or platelets, PlasmaSource ensures a streamlined and comfortable process from start to finish. Our highly trained experts will guide you through each step, from a quick health check to the donation. Donating plasma or platelets, even with a history of an STD, may still be possible, depending on your specific circumstances.
Understanding the eligibility criteria is crucial in ensuring that donors and recipients of plasma-derived therapies remain safe. If you’re ever unsure about your eligibility, our experts are here to help. By following our guidelines and exploring what to expect during the donation process, you can confidently decide to contribute to a life-changing cause.