Plasma is a yellowish liquid component of blood that makes up about 55% of the body’s total blood volume. This fluid carries water, salts, enzymes, antibodies, and other proteins throughout the body, important for maintaining blood pressure, clotting, and immunity. Plasma donations are used to produce treatments for individuals with bleeding disorders, immune deficiencies, and those recovering from trauma or burns. Many regular plasma donors wonder about their eligibility during pregnancy.
Guidelines for Plasma Donation During Pregnancy
Plasma donation centers do not permit individuals to donate while pregnant. This restriction prioritizes the health and well-being of both the expectant mother and the developing fetus. Guidelines may vary slightly, but the policy is consistent across major health organizations. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stipulates that pregnant individuals are not eligible to donate plasma or platelets.
A primary reason for this policy stems from the potential risk to recipients of the donated plasma. During pregnancy, a person’s body can develop human leukocyte antigen (HLA) antibodies in response to the baby’s unique genetic material, which can mix with the mother’s blood. If plasma containing these HLA antibodies is transfused, it can lead to a serious and potentially fatal reaction called transfusion-related acute lung injury (TRALI). Donation centers test for HLA antibodies in individuals who have been pregnant.
Physiological Considerations for Expectant Mothers
Pregnancy brings about physiological changes in the body to support fetal growth and development. One change involves an increase in blood volume, which can expand by nearly 50% by the third trimester. This increased blood volume is important for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the growing fetus through the placenta. Donating plasma would temporarily reduce this increased blood volume, potentially straining the balance needed for a healthy pregnancy.
The body’s iron requirements increase during pregnancy to produce more blood for the mother and baby. Plasma donation, even though it primarily removes fluid, can indirectly impact iron stores and overall blood composition. Depleting these resources could increase the risk of iron deficiency anemia, posing health concerns for both mother and fetus. The composition of plasma also changes during pregnancy, making it temporarily unsuitable for donation.
Resuming Plasma Donation After Childbirth
After childbirth, the body requires time to recover and replenish resources before resuming plasma donation. Most donation centers recommend a waiting period, ranging from 6 to 12 months post-delivery. This allows the body to heal, restore blood volume, and normalize iron levels. For individuals who have had a miscarriage or termination of pregnancy, some centers may allow donation after a shorter period, such as 6 weeks.
It is important for individuals interested in donating plasma after pregnancy to consult with their healthcare provider to ensure they are physically ready. Donation centers will also conduct screenings, including testing for HLA antibodies, to confirm eligibility and ensure the safety of the donated plasma for recipients. While breastfeeding, the World Health Organization (WHO) advises against donation, as it may affect milk supply and lead to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances in the mother.