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BloodBanker

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Can LGBTQ+ people donate blood?

Usually yes
Quick answerYes. Under current U.S. rules, every donor answers the same individual risk-based questions, regardless of sexual orientation or gender. There is no separate deferral based on who you are.

What this means

  • The 2023 individual donor assessment replaced the older rules that singled out men who have sex with men.
  • Everyone is screened with the same questions about recent specific activities.
  • Taking PrEP or PEP currently affects timing for all donors. See those topics.

What to do next

Book a donation. The same questions apply to everyone.

When to call the center: Call if you take PrEP or PEP and want to confirm timing.

Why this rule exists

Screening is now based on individual risk rather than identity, which is both fairer and protective of patients.

This is general educational guidance, not a final eligibility decision. Donation centers make final eligibility decisions during confidential screening. Rules may vary by center, donation type, location, and current policy.

Find a place to donate

Search by city, ZIP, state, or center name, or use your location to see the closest centers.

Related questions

Our no-monetization pledge

BloodBanker does not use affiliate links, paid rankings, or ads on mission pages. We do not sell donor health information. We link to official donation organizations so people can donate safely and locally.

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Sources and review

The guidance on this page reflects published criteria from these organizations. Eligibility and procedures vary by center and country, so confirm specifics with your donation center.

Last reviewed:
Next review due:
Reviewed by:
Reviewed against American Red Cross, AABB, and U.S. FDA donor guidance
Confidence:
High confidence