Menstruation

Menstruation does not prevent blood donation.
For blood donors with heavy periods, we recommend donating blood no more than once a year to avoid iron deficiency.
Signs of heavy menstrual bleeding include:
  • A total bleeding volume of over 80 ml,
  • The need to use, for example, a pad and tampon simultaneously,
  • Breakthrough bleeding (including at night),
  • The need to change menstrual products every 1–2 hours,
  • Large blood clots in the flow,
  • Bed linens being stained despite using menstrual protection,
  • Periods that interfere with normal life or work.
Heavy periods increase the risk of iron deficiency and iron-deficiency anemia. Therefore, it is important that the bleeding is under control before donating blood.
A medical examination is recommended if the symptoms interfere with normal life, work, or hobbies. Examinations are also needed if the issue has appeared suddenly or is accompanied by bleeding between periods or severe pain.