Frequently Asked Questions about Blood Donation

I'm currently taking an antibiotic. Will I still be able to donate?

If you are taking an antibiotic for an infection, wait until the last dose and you are symptom free before attempting to donate.

I'm anemic. Can I donate?

The acceptable hemoglobin (iron) range varies based on sex. For women, the acceptable range is 12.5 - 19.5. For men, it is 13.0 - 19.5. If your hemoglobin is in the acceptable range when we check it, you are okay to donate - regardless of if you are anemic or not. Any reading outside of this range will defer you from donating that day.

I just had a flu shot. Will I still be able to donate?

There is no deferral for a flu shot, as long as you are symptom free.

I'm currently taking a medication. Will I still be able to donate?

Most medications are acceptable for donation.

For questions, please call one of our donor centers and ask to speak with a phlebotomist who will review the Medication Deferral List and your specific information confidentially with you.

There have been many changes and updates recently.

I'm diabetic. Can I still donate?

No problem! As long as your Diabetes is under control (with or without medication) we'd love to have you!

I've got high blood pressure? Can I still donate?

No problem! As long as your blood pressure is under control (with or without medication) and within range, we'd love to have you. The acceptable range is 90/50 - 180/90.

I was stationed in the military and spent time overseas. Can I still donate?

Due to updated guidance by the FDA, as of July 18, 2022, Shepeard is able to accept donors who lived in Europe and the U.K. from 1980 until present day. If you were previously deferred for this, we welcome you back in to donate.

I got a tattoo/piercing recently. Can I still donate?

There is no longer a deferral for tattoos and piercings received in Georgia and South Carolina. If you have any questions, please call 706-737-4551.

I travelled to (Insert Country). Can I still give?

There are a number of possible travel restrictions based on risks for malaria and other diseases. It is important that you bring the specific location where you went and the time frame you went there, so we can determine if you are eligible to donate.

How long must I wait after giving birth, to donate blood?

New mothers must wait at least 6 weeks after giving birth to give blood.