Has anyone ever donated platelets?

[WhenZogateSuperworm]

I am A negative blood type and just read that this means my platelets are in high demand as they can be used universally.

I’ve never even given blood before but wondered whether there was any negatives I needed to consider if donating platelets? The blood donor website is obviously very pro donation!

I donate blood regularly, but was told I was too light (under 70kg) and my veins weren’t good enough to do platelets.

I did for a while...I’m tall (5’10”) and was therefore just heavy enough. I loved the comfort of it all (pre kids a Saturday appointment to sit with a drink of squash and a paper was great!) but my veins were a bit too narrow so I was politely sent back to whole blood donation.

Yes I’ve done it. Longer time for actual donation than usual but you can do it more often. You’re treated really nicely while you’re there as the staff are aware it’s a bigger time commitment you’re making. Needle is the same (from memory), you need to squeeze and release your hand throughout, but it’s no bother. I enjoyed doing it, would do again if it wasn’t for childcare issues/pregnancy/breastfeeding.

I’m under 70kg but the website says for my height I need to be above 8 stone 11 which I am.

I had a baby 3 months ago so I know I can’t donate for another 3 months but then rally want to start donating blood.

@NuffingChora can you not donate while breastfeeding? That will put me back a bit longer then as I intend to feed DD for at least a year.

They flush the tubes with a solution that gives you a metallic taste. You also have your arm wrapped in a warming blanket.

@WhenZogateSuperworm In fairness I’m not actually sure on the specific ruling but I tend to be anaemic while feeding so hadn’t tried to donate at all, and had also come off platelet donor register in meantime anyway so wasn’t called. I donated while I was a student.