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Plasma Donation: The Myths and Truths behind Them

If you’re keen to learn more about plasma donation and how it works, you’ve probably searched on Google about the topic and scanned on various information that you don’t know is real or not. Furthermore, some media outlets on the internet have shown plasma donation in a poor light, instilling fear and misleading information in people.

No worries, though. Because in this article, you’ll finally get a piece of clear information about what donating plasma is like and how to debunk some of the myths surrounding this topic.

Myth #1: Plasma Donation Is Dangerous

This is probably the most popular myth said by most people when they hear someone going to the plasma donation center to provide their assistance. Of course, this is not true because donating plasma is safe and secure. 

In fact, it is a common medical procedure in the United States, with over 41 million donations made in 2016. Furthermore, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the donation process performed in licensed and certified plasma donation centers.

Myth #2: Donating Your Plasma Is Like Donating Your Blood

There’s a clear distinction between plasma and blood. Your plasma is the clear, straw-colored liquid that makes up 55% of your blood volume. It is mainly composed of water and proteins. Plasma is essential for blood clotting and carries antibodies and other important substances.

On the other hand, blood is made up of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. It is this fluid that is transfused during a blood donation.

Most people confuse plasma donation with blood donation because both donations help save lives. Aside from that, you can give blood and plasma at the same time. However, it’s crucial to remember that these two donations are still very different.

Myth #3: There’s No Need to Donate Your Plasma

Plasma donation centers do not get established for nothing. After all, the need for plasma donations is quite high. This is because plasma is used in various medical treatments and procedures. It is used to treat conditions like hemophilia and burns. It is also used in the production of vaccines and other medical treatments.

Providing plasma is one of the simplest and most convenient ways to help save lives. It only takes a few minutes to complete the donation process, and you can do it at any time convenient.

Myth #4: You Can’t Donate Plasma If You’re Pregnant

Pregnant women can donate plasma as long as they meet the donation requirements. These requirements vary depending on the plasma donation center, but most centers don’t allow pregnant women to donate if they are more than 24 weeks pregnant.

Myth #5: You Cannot Donate Plasma If You Have Tattoos

Most tattoo ink is not made of blood, so there is no danger of contracting a disease from donating plasma after getting a tattoo. However, there is a slight risk of acquiring hepatitis or HIV from a contaminated needle, so donors are screened for these diseases before they are allowed to donate plasma.

Final Thoughts

Plasma donation is a safe and essential process that helps people in need. However, some myths and misconceptions about it need to be debunked. By understanding the truth about plasma donation, potential donors can make an informed decision about whether it is the right choice.

thplasma is a reliable and high-quality plasma donation center committed to providing donors with a safe and positive experience. Get in touch with us today for more information!