Can You Donate Plasma While Pregnant?
According to the Federal Drug Administration (FDA), pregnant people are not eligible to donate blood plasma or platelets.
This precaution helps protect you and your baby.
Why can’t you donate plasma or platelets while pregnant? Let’s explore what could potentially happen if a pregnant person donates plasma or platelets and how it could impact HLA (human leukocyte antigen) levels.
What Happens if You Donate Plasma While Pregnant?
It could put you, your baby, and the recipient at serious risk.
Risks of Donating Plasma While Pregnant
Pregnant women have HLA in their blood that, if donated, may pose a serious risk to their growing fetus and the recipient.
- Risks to You and Baby
Donating plasma or platelets can reduce blood volume and HLA levels, potentially leading to negative immune responses or even miscarriage.
- Risks to the Recipient
The recipient’s immune system might recognize the higher levels of antigens as threats, leading to reactions such as itching, rash, or more severe symptoms like anaphylaxis.
What is HLA
HLA, or human leukocyte antigen, is a group of proteins found on the surface of most cells in the body. They play a crucial role in your body’s immune response, helping it distinguish between its own cells and foreign ones.
During pregnancy, HLA helps maintain the delicate balance between the mother’s immune system and the developing fetus. It’s essential for balancing immune tolerance and protection during pregnancy, keeping you and your baby healthy and safe during pregnancy.
You might think of HLA like a police officer for the immune system, ensuring the body recognizes and accepts the baby as a special guest, rather than an unwelcome intruder.
How Long Should I Wait After Giving Birth to Donate Plasma?
We recommend waiting at least six months after pregnancy before donating plasma or platelets. This allows your body enough time to heal and adjust, including any adjustments needed for breastfeeding (if you choose to do so).
If you are at least six months postpartum, and your healthcare provider has confirmed it is safe for you to donate plasma or platelets, please schedule an appointment at our safety-certified blood plasma donation center in Aurora, IL.
We are dedicated to you and your growing baby’s health and comfort.