Quick question: how many times have you turned down the chance to donate blood? Quite a few times, right? As we approach World Blood Donor Day on June 14, let’s bust some common blood donation myths so that this year, you finally get to participate without fear. Yes, we are in a pandemic, but we still need to donate blood. As long as donation centers follow these rules, there is no reason to be afraid.
Myth 1: It will make you weak
This is hands down the most common blood donation (BD) myth Indians believe in. Recently, India’s largest community of verified doctors, Curofy, asked doctors about the most common BD myth via a poll. Of the 2560 doctors who weighed in, 78.1% confirmed that most people believe that it causes weakness.
In reality, you will only feel lightheaded or slightly dizzy for a few hours after the procedure. The weakness bit is only based on the assumption that since blood is going out of the body, it will cause weakness. No long-term “weakness” is seen in a healthy blood donor.
Myth 2: There is a high risk of contracting communicable diseases
This is the second most common misconception and sadly, it is believed along with the first myth. Many people believe that since BD weakens you, you are more prone to contracting infectious or contagious diseases like HIV. The person undergoing the transfusion should be more worried about contracting something – if we lived in the 20th century, that is! In our times, medical science has advanced so much that the chances of contracting any infection are next to none.
Blood donors have to be screened before they donate, meaning you cannot give blood if you do not pass all the requisite medical tests. Medical tests are just as rigorous and extensive for the ones undergoing a transfusion. Plus, the antiseptic that will be administered before you give blood and the sterile medical equipment used to collect it will ensure you are as safe as can be.
Myth 3: It is painful and time-consuming
No and no. It is just as painful as a pinprick…and hey, don’t you take injections for swine flu, tetanus, etc? Plus, the whole procedure only takes about an hour at most.
Myth 4: Vegetarians, menstruating women, and old people shouldn’t do it
Folks believe that vegetarians have less Iron in their blood than non-vegetarians. This one doesn’t even make sense as food items like leafy greens are rich in iron. The key here is a balanced diet. Therefore, a vegetarian is as qualified to donate as a non-vegetarian – if their iron and hemoglobin levels are on fleek.
Women, have no qualms about blood donation when you are on your period. Just like any other donor, you should only do it if you are pronounced medically fit and able to be able to do so. And as long as you are legal and fit, age isn’t a limiting factor.
Myth 5: It causes infertility and impotence
Since there is no logic involved, let’s just say there is no base to thoughts like these, okay? Both a man and a woman who are trying to conceive can donate blood without any repercussions.
Apart from these myths, I am sure you have some doubts of your own. Feel free to consult your doctor and of course, get a proper medical checkup. And only after you are deemed medically fit, head to the hospital or blood donation camp of your choice.
Women suffering from childbirth complications, cancer patients, victims of natural disasters, even babies and childbirth – there’s no end to the number of people who need your blood to live. The question is, are you prepared to be their savior?
