Wondering that can you donate blood if you have Herpes? Herpes is a simple virus also famous by the name of HSV. It is a type of infection that appears on body parts mostly it appears on the mouth and sometimes on the genitals. This is because of two types of infection 

  • HSV-1
  • HSV-2

If a person is suffering from this kind of infection or disease in the body, you cannot donate blood. Doctors do not allow them to donate blood as it spreads the infection to the receiver. This way more people carry the infection and its chance of spreading increases. 

But, the debate is still going on this. There are some rules on which you will be able to donate blood. Find more about this by reading the blog below. 

Can you donate blood if you have Herpes – What is HSV-1 and HSV-2

HSV-1 is a type of infection caused due to many reasons. Like people use the same pots for their food which can spread the virus from one place to another. Moreover, using cheap products on your lips like different lip balms and lipsticks of each other. And also one of its reason is kissing and oral sex.

HSV-2 is the cause of sexual interaction with an infected person with herpes. You will find this disease most common in adults. Some other reason for this is that people have weak immune systems. So, the infection can easily attack them as the cells are unable to control the spread. 

Moreover, having sex with multiple people including the younger age is the biggest reason for this disease.
Also, read how does a married woman get HPV?

Can You Donate Blood If You Have Herpes – Further Discussion:

The answer to this question depends on the situation or stage of the infection that you are in. You might have the right to donate blood if you don’t have visible symptoms. 

According to the research “by the American Red Cross” that people can donate blood with herpes infection. But the rules are if they feel healthy and good. So if you have any doubt regarding this question you should confirm it with your doctor before donation.

Can You Donate Blood If You Have Herpes – Symptoms for Herpes Infection:

  • Bristles in the mouth which makes you difficult to eat 
  • Pain and burning during urination (this is included in genital herpes)
  • Itching in genitals 
  • Headache 
  • Fever 
  • Swollen lymph
  • Feel tiredness most of the time

Treatment for Herpes:

Some of the home remedies are perfect for this treatment like you can use alveolar gel and corn starch. Moreover, you can use petroleum gel, take bath with little thick water. Also, you can wear clothes that comforts your body and ice cubes can also be helpful for this. 

Even if this doesn’t help you, it’s time to take professional help. Consult your doctor immediately and take medicines or antibiotics. 

Can You Donate Blood If You Have Genital Herpes?

So, another question is that can you donate blood if you have genital herpes. Genital herpes is also a type of herpes that is due to it is due to the sexual interaction we have. You can avoid it by using condoms and other safety products during sexual contact with your partner.

A lot of condom companies also advertise the benefit of using it to stop the spread of Herpes. 

Stages of Genital Herpes:

At the first stage, you will feel itching and redness in the genitals. Later on, it will feel like bristles and if the condition remains the same, it will become much worse. After this, the stage comes in which the bristles start to contain yellow fluid which can become so painful.

In such cases, the recommendation is not to donate blood. Mostly it takes 2 to 3 weeks but if it is severe it may also take months to recover.

Can You Still Donate Blood If You Have Herpes – Conclusion:

Blood is the most expensive and valuable gift which you can donate to others. According to research, doctors say that blood donation can reduce many dangers. But there are some precautions you should take before donation. 

Especially when it comes to the condition of Herpes. A lot of people question that can you donate blood if you have herpes. It is important to check the PH of your blood and your body should be healthy. There should no harmful viruses present in your body that can lead to different types of infection like herpes. 

It is now to us to stop the spread of this infection through precautionary measures.