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Important Medical Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about your specific contraceptive method and any concerns. Eligibility requirements vary by plasma center and individual health circumstances.

💊 ELIGIBILITY GUIDE

Can You Donate Plasma on Birth Control?

Last Updated: January 2026

Good news: Most contraceptives don't affect your eligibility

📅 Updated: January 2026 • ⏱️ 4 min read

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✅ Quick Answer: YES

You can donate plasma while using birth control. Hormonal contraceptives (pills, patches, rings, implants, IUDs, and shots) do not disqualify you from plasma donation.

Birth control medications are not on the FDA's list of deferrals for plasma donation.

Eligibility by Contraceptive Type

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Birth Control Pills

ELIGIBLE

All oral contraceptives (combination pills, progestin-only pills) are acceptable. This includes brand names like Yaz, Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Lo Loestrin, and generics. Continue taking as prescribed.

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IUD (Intrauterine Device)

ELIGIBLE

Both hormonal IUDs (Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta, Skyla) and copper IUDs (Paragard) are acceptable. The device doesn't affect your blood or plasma.

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Arm Implant (Nexplanon)

ELIGIBLE

Nexplanon and similar implants are acceptable. The implant is in your arm, so plasma is collected from the opposite arm with no issues.

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Depo-Provera Shot

ELIGIBLE

The Depo shot doesn't affect plasma donation eligibility. You can donate even on the day you receive your injection.

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Patch (Xulane) & Ring (NuvaRing)

ELIGIBLE

Hormonal patches and vaginal rings are acceptable. These methods don't interfere with plasma donation.

🛡️

Non-Hormonal Methods

ELIGIBLE

Condoms, diaphragms, spermicides, and fertility awareness methods have no impact on plasma donation eligibility whatsoever.

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Do You Need to Tell the Screener?

Yes, you should always disclose all medications during screening, including birth control. Here's why:

  • ✓ Honesty matters: The screening questionnaire asks about all medications. Being truthful maintains the integrity of the process.
  • ✓ It's not disqualifying: Telling them about your birth control won't prevent you from donating.
  • ✓ Complete medical picture: Staff need accurate information to ensure your safety and plasma quality.

💡 Pro Tip: Bring a list of all your medications (including birth control) to your first appointment. This speeds up the screening process.

Special Considerations for Female Donors

🩸 During Your Period

You can donate plasma during your menstrual period. However, if your iron levels run low during menstruation, you might be temporarily deferred.

Tip: Eat iron-rich foods before donating during your period.

🤰 If You Become Pregnant

You cannot donate plasma while pregnant or for 6 weeks after giving birth. If you think you might be pregnant, wait to donate until you know for sure.

Breastfeeding also requires a 6-week deferral after cessation.

💊 Emergency Contraception

Plan B and other emergency contraceptives don't typically affect eligibility. However, mention it during screening so staff can confirm based on their center's policies.

⚖️ Weight Requirements

Female donors must weigh at least 110 lbs (same as males). Some birth control methods can cause weight fluctuation, which could affect eligibility at the margins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will donating plasma affect my birth control effectiveness? ▼
No. Plasma donation does not affect how well your birth control works. The hormones in your contraceptives stay in your body; only plasma proteins are collected. Your birth control remains fully effective.
I just started new birth control. Do I need to wait? ▼
No waiting period is required for starting birth control. However, if you're experiencing side effects like nausea, headaches, or dizziness while your body adjusts, you might want to wait until those subside for your own comfort during donation.
Can I donate if I have an arm implant on both sides? ▼
Nexplanon is only inserted in one arm. If for some reason you have implants or devices in both arms, the center will evaluate whether they have a suitable vein to draw from. This is very rare.
Do hormone levels in plasma matter? ▼
Plasma is processed and purified before being used to create medications. Any trace hormones from birth control are removed during this manufacturing process and don't affect the final plasma products.
I'm on birth control for a medical condition (not contraception). Does that matter? ▼
Birth control is often prescribed for conditions like endometriosis, PCOS, heavy periods, or acne. The reason you take it doesn't typically affect your eligibility. However, the underlying medical condition itself may require evaluation. Mention both the medication and the condition during screening so staff can make an informed decision.
Can I donate if I'm taking both birth control and other medications? ▼
Most likely, yes. Birth control doesn't interact with plasma donation eligibility for other medications. Each medication is evaluated separately. Bring a complete list of all medications (prescription and over-the-counter) to your screening appointment.
I switched birth control methods recently. Is there a waiting period? ▼
No waiting period for switching between contraceptive methods. Whether you went from pill to IUD, shot to implant, or any other combination, you can continue donating. The only consideration is how you're feeling—if you're experiencing adjustment symptoms, wait until you feel normal.
Is there a minimum age for donating while on birth control? ▼
The minimum age for plasma donation is 18 (some states require 19). Being on birth control doesn't change this requirement. If you're 18 or older and otherwise eligible, your birth control method doesn't create any additional age-related restrictions.

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Complete guide to medical requirements.
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Medical Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Eligibility requirements for plasma donation vary by center and are subject to change. Always consult with your healthcare provider about your specific contraceptive method and any health concerns. The plasma center staff will make final eligibility determinations based on your individual health history.