Plasma donation has become a popular way to earn extra money, but individuals with new tattoos are usually not allowed to donate. If your tattoo was done in a regulated California facility, you may still be eligible to donate after a certain waiting period.
Importance of Plasma Donation
Plasma, the liquid part of blood containing antibodies, is crucial in fighting infections, stopping excessive bleeding, and assisting people with immune and blood disorders. Donating plasma only takes about 30 minutes.
Impact of tattoos and Body Modifications
tattoos, piercings, and other body modifications can hinder blood donation due to the presence of foreign material that may cause infections. However, most states regulate tattoo parlors to ensure cleanliness and hygiene. If your tattoo or piercing was done in a state-approved facility and has fully healed, you may still be eligible for donation.
Deferral Period and Restrictions
While tattooed individuals still need to wait before donating, the deferral period for acupuncture and body piercings has been reduced from 12 to 4 months. However, cocaine users are still subject to deferral. Fortunately, this restriction does not apply to plasma donors.
Hepatitis B and C Risks
Plasma treats various medical conditions, including hemorrhages and life-threatening diseases. Previously, donors were advised to wait 12 months after getting tattoos to reduce the risk of transmitting Hepatitis B or C unknowingly. These viruses can spread through contaminated needles for tattooing or piercing, intravenous drug use, and sexual contact. Hepatitis B has a vaccine, but hepatitis C requires medical treatment.
Exception for Chronic Hepatitis B Infection and Tattoos
Individuals with likely chronic hepatitis B infection test profiles can still donate plasma under proper precautions and by getting tattoos at regulated facilities, as a recent study conducted by Lifeblood suggested.
Tips to Avoid Side Effects
To minimize side effects, drinking plenty of water before and during plasma donation is recommended, consuming iron-rich foods, relaxing before the gift, and getting enough rest beforehand.
Other Conditions Affecting Plasma Donation
Apart from tattoos, certain conditions such as malaria, hepatitis B and C infections, jaundice, babesiosis, tuberculosis (TB), sickle cell disease, hemophilia, HIV, or STIs may prevent individuals from donating plasma. A nurse will review your health history to ensure the safety of the donated plasma for recipient hospitals.
Importance of Plasma Donation for Medical Care
Plasma donation plays a vital role in helping patients in emergency or trauma situations, as it helps stop bleeding, treat various diseases like cancer and kidney disorders, and assist individuals with chronic illnesses in prolonging their lives. Plasmapheresis devices separate plasma from other blood components, making it a valuable resource for needy patients.
Conclusion
tattoos do not interfere with plasma donation, but waiting for the tattoo to heal before donating is important fully. Most blood centers take necessary steps to ensure safe plasma donation, while specific health conditions may disqualify individuals from participating, such as malaria, tuberculosis, and certain forms of hepatitis.
