Question:
How long after surgery do you have to wait before donating blood?

   — [Anonymous] (posted on September 12, 2001)

September 12, 2001
I asked the very same question this morning after what has happened in NY and DC...but was advised from my surgeon's office not to donate blood. That I may have to wait a year or two before doing so. One person from my class donated blood last week and her blood was refused due to low iron levels. Maybe it depends on person to person how well their levels are.
   — [Anonymous]

September 12, 2001
My surgeon says to NEVER give blood because of the fact that our iron absorbtion is limited and we could become anemic.
   — Deb H.

September 12, 2001
I was told by my surgeon I could donate after 6 months. However, when I had the hemoglobin test done (a routine test to check iron levels I believe) I was denied because I was a little low- not low enough to be considered anemic- just low enough not to be considered for blood donation. This had also happened to me PRIOR to WLS. I have continuosly tried to donate, and have since succeeded- I actually had the highest reading I ever had last time gor my iron count, probably due to my self care and vitamin regime (thank you Michelle Curran!) I have donated and not had any side effects. My suggestion? Talk to your Dr. and get their opinion for your personal circumstances.
   — M B.

September 12, 2001
I spoke with my surgeon Tuesday afternoon and he said that as long as their test didn't show me as anemic that I could give. I'm 7 months out of surgery.
   — Meredith A.

November 15, 2001
Hi !!! I am 4 months post-op and I was told by my Surgoen that I should not be giving Blood donations because I need every bit of Nutriton I can get so i followed his orders. But I would really like to give blood sense our Country needs all they can get... So I am going to ask Him again in a couple of months..
   — Birgit T.