Plasma donation is still surrounded by many myths. In this article, we take a closer look at its effects on the body and the potential risks of donating blood plasma. If you would like to understand how plasma donation affects your body, you are in the right place.
Who Needs Blood Plasma Donations?
Blood plasma is a vital component of human blood. Approximately 90% of it is water, while the remaining 10% consists mainly of proteins, minerals, and hormones. These components are essential for the healthy functioning of the body.
Blood plasma cannot be artificially produced under laboratory conditions. Therefore, plasma-derived medicines rely on human plasma—donations from plasma donors. These medicines are used to treat patients with immune deficiencies, bleeding disorders, those who have undergone bone marrow transplants, or individuals with severe burns. These are the people who depend on plasma donations.
How Much Plasma Is Needed?
As a result, there is a constant need for plasma donors whose donations can be used to manufacture these life-saving medicines. Thanks to them, treatments are available that improve the quality of life for people suffering from various illnesses and injuries. While potential side effects of plasma donation may occur—such as temporary fatigue or weakness—these are usually mild and short-lived.
In Hungary, approximately 400–500 people live with type A hemophilia (a severe bleeding disorder). They may require plasma-based medication several times a week.
Producing a single dose of medication may require donations from hundreds of plasma donors. For patients with immune system disorders, a monthly dose of medication is covered by approximately 10 plasma donations. This clearly shows how significant the demand for plasma donations is.
How Does Plasma Donation Affect Your Body?
From the donor’s perspective, a healthy body is generally able to regenerate quickly. However, among the possible drawbacks, some individuals may experience slower recovery, requiring additional rest. The eligibility screening prior to donation is designed to ensure that each donor is suitable and to assess how quickly their body can recover between donations.
To support faster recovery and minimize potential disadvantages, it is important to pay attention to proper nutrition.
On the day before donation, it is recommended to consume 2.5–3 liters of fluids, and on the day of donation (but not immediately before), an additional 1.5–2 liters. It is advisable to avoid fatty, cholesterol-rich foods, as well as red-colored foods (such as tomatoes, raspberries, and strawberries). Eating a healthy meal 1–2 hours before donation is also recommended, while strenuous exercise, smoking, and alcohol should be avoided.
After donation, it is important to continue drinking plenty of fluids to replenish what was lost. Consuming protein-rich foods within two hours can also support recovery. Smoking should be avoided for at least 30 minutes, and strenuous activities for 24 hours.
Donors who follow these guidelines typically recover quickly, and plasma donation does not place significant strain on their bodies.
How Is Plasma Collected?
Plasma is collected using a process called plasmapheresis. A needle inserted into a vein is connected to a tube that carries blood into a machine. This machine separates the blood into its components: plasma and cellular elements.
The plasma is collected into a special container through a separate tube, while the remaining blood components are returned to the donor’s vein. This is the most efficient and safest method of plasma collection. However, minor side effects may still occur, such as bruising at the needle site or other mild discomfort.
At Haema Plasma centers, an isotonic solution is also administered immediately after the procedure, which further supports post-donation recovery.
The process takes place in cycles, with only a small amount of blood processed at a time—ensuring both safety and efficiency.
Where Can You Donate Plasma?
Plasma donation takes place in dedicated plasma centers. These are healthcare facilities where donations are carried out under regulated and controlled conditions, with medical supervision. It is important to be aware of both the potential risks and benefits, and healthcare professionals are always available to provide detailed information so that you can make an informed decision before donating.
Haema Plasma operates 7 plasma centers in Hungary:
- 2 centers in Budapest (Infopark and City Center Office Building)
- 2 centers in Debrecen (Malompark and Péterfia Corner)
- 1 center in Pécs (Szliven Building)
- 1 center in Miskolc (Király Street)
- 1 center in Nagykanizsa (Célpont Shopping Center)
For the time spent donating plasma, donors receive financial compensation, and additional vouchers are provided for completing related questionnaires. On average, donors can receive benefits exceeding 10,000 HUF per occasion.
