FAQs: Platelet Donations

What to Know About Donating Platelets

How often can I donate platelets?

You can donate platelets as often as every 14 days. New platelet donors are encouraged to donate once a month.

How long does a platelet donation take?

Each appointment takes approximately an hour and a half. The plateletpheresis process is usually about 75 to 100 minutes for a large-volume donation and about 50 to 75 minutes for a single-unit donation, depending on your platelet count.

Once I start donating platelets, can I still give blood?

Yes, although we recommend you choose just one type of donation to make regularly. If you do wish to donate both blood and platelets, you need to wait 56 days after either type of donation before making the other.

What if I change my mind about donating platelets?

You’re welcome to try different donation programs to see which you like best: blood, plasma or platelets.

What if I am not eligible to donate platelets?

Every donation is valuable and helps save lives. Blood is just as important as platelets: we appreciate your generosity and commitment, whatever you’re able to give.