Has anyone ever donated plasma?

[BlondieK143]

My company is doing a blood drive at the end of next month and they're taking plasma donations as well. Anyone know if this hurts more than just giving blood? Any suggestions if I do decide to do it?

[RandomKoolzip]

1. Yeah.

I was living in New Orleans and had already sold most of my record collection and I wanted to buy some speed. So....voila!

Easiest 20 bucks I ever made.

[BlondieK143]

3. Nice!

Didn't hurt a bit?

[In_The_Wind]

2. drink orange juice ?

:shrug:

[BlondieK143]

6. Of course!

:) And gotta eat a good breakfast.

[In_The_Wind]

7. you're one smart cookie

:applause:

[jus_the_facts]

4. Lot's o'times.....hurts no worse than givin' blood......

...just leaves bigger scars as the needle is larger....but PLEASE DO IT...my Dad has leukemia and has needed gallons of donated plasma and platelettes...THANKS IN ADVANCE!!! :hi:

[BlondieK143]

8. Thank you!

And my thoughts and prayers go out to your father! :hug:

[jus_the_facts]

12. thank YOU....

.....most appreciated and needed! :hug:

[melnjones]

5. I have...

I have the scars to prove it too! Actually I donated for money when I was in undergrad, but I've never donated blood so I can't really compare them. The good thing with donating plasma is that you can do so up to twice a week b/c you don't lose any red blood cells. You don't have the waiting period like you do with donating blood. Where I live you can make about $40 a week donating plasma.

[BlondieK143]

10. Wow, I didn't know that!

I was just thinking it was another donating thing. I'd think about doing it even if it weren't for money, just wanted to know if the process sucked. :D

[short bus president]

9. it's a longer process than donating blood

and the needle used for plasmapheresis is, erm, significantly larger. Plus there's the whole thing about the cells being reinfused through the same needle after the plasma is separated - it can feel kinda cool and tingly, 'tho not BAD. All in all, it's not horrifically painful, it pays, and worthwhile products are made from the plasma you donate.

[BlondieK143]

11. So they put the blood back in you, right?

Sorry, I feel like an idiot.

[short bus president]

13. the red blood cells, minus the juice, essentially.

I would assume mixed with saline for volume. I worked at a plasmapheresis center in college, and donated lots. I have no scars. My only complaint was not being allowed to sleep while donating (it takes a half hour or so). But I can see the safety reasoning behind that.

[BlondieK143]

14. Thanks so much for the help!

I feel much better about it now!

[RevolutionaryActs]

15. You're a good girl.

Me no likey the needles. x(

[BlondieK143]

16. They're not my favorite.

But I figure it's for a good cause. :hug:

[Blue Gardener]

17. I did it for years

The University Hospitals here have a center and I used to go once a month. I got burnt out on it though so now I'm just back to donating blood. I may start up again sometime though. It doesn't really hurt. The most trouble I ever had was being cold during the return cycle (because it's below your body temperature), or occasionally a little nausea. Nothing serious, just make sure to dress warm...no shorts. If you get cold they'll cover you with blankets. Personally, I much prefer going to the hospital to donate instead of a plasma center. The staff at the hospital has a lot of experience, so I just feel more comfortable there.

[BlondieK143]

18. Thanks for the suggestion!

If it were up to me, I'd rather go to a hospital as well, but I'm pretty sure they're bringing the equipment and things here. Not sure how it's going to work yet. :shrug: But definitely thank you for the warm clothing suggestion!