For most operations, you can donate once you have fully recovered and all wounds are healed.
Awaiting surgery
If you are awaiting surgery, you may still be able to donate, but we’ll need to know a little more. Please get in touch to find out if you are eligible before you book an appointment.
Keyhole surgery, endoscopy, colonoscopy
If you have had an investigation or procedure using a flexible scope you will have to wait 120 days before donating.
If the investigation has been carried out with a rigid endoscope (e.g. colposcopies and most arthroscopies and proctoscopies) and you are well and not waiting for further tests or results you can donate.
Major surgery
For major procedures, you may have to wait at least 6 months before donating.
You will be unable to give blood if you have received, or think you have received a blood transfusion since 1980.
Treatment performed outside of the UK or Republic of Ireland (ROI)
You should not give blood for 3 months following any surgical procedure performed outside of the UK and Republic of Ireland (ROI).
