When you decide to donate blood, understanding the process and the amount of blood involved is essential. The standard method, known as whole blood donation, is familiar to most people. This involves collecting all components of your blood: red blood cells, white blood cells, platelets, and plasma.
Generally, 500ml of blood, equivalent to about one pint, is collected during a whole blood donation.
Considering the average adult has around five liters (roughly 10-12 pints) of blood in their body, a whole blood donation accounts for approximately 10% of your total blood volume. To allow your body to replenish the lost blood cells, there’s a required waiting period of 56 days before your next donation.
Double Red Cell Donation Explained
A double red cell donation is a specialized procedure where only your red blood cells are collected, while platelets and plasma are returned to your body. This process, also called automation or apheresis, focuses specifically on extracting red blood cells efficiently.
In a double red cell donation, two 250ml units of red blood cells are collected, providing a concentrated supply for patients in need.
Platelet Donation: A Closer Look
Platelet donation involves collecting only platelets using an apheresis process similar to double red cell donations.
A typical adult platelet count ranges from 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter. The quantity of platelets collected during donation depends on the ratio of your platelet count to your overall blood volume. Additionally, 200-400ml of plasma is also collected to help preserve the platelets. Up to three doses of platelets can be donated in a single session.
Individuals with blood types AB-, AB+, O+, A+, and B+ are particularly encouraged to donate platelets to meet patient needs.
No matter which method you choose, remember that donating blood offers patients a renewed chance at life.
Eligible donors can donate whole blood every 8 weeks, double red cells every 16 weeks, and platelets as often as every 7 days. Find a OneBlood Big Red Bus or Donor Center near you to donate blood today. Your contribution makes a significant difference!
