Getting Started

Step-by-Step Process

1. Choose your donation type

   Select the bio-donation type that best fits your situation:

   • Plasma donation: Most accessible, twice weekly, $30-60 per donation
   • Sperm donation: More stringent requirements, $100-150 per accepted sample
   • Egg donation: Most intensive process, $8,000-15,000 per cycle
   • Research studies: Varies widely, $50-300 for outpatient studies

   Timeframe: 1-2 days of research

2. Research local donation centers

   Find reputable centers near you using these official websites:

   • Plasma: DonatingPlasma.org, CSL Plasma, BioLife
   • Sperm: California Cryobank, Seattle Sperm Bank
   • Eggs: Bright Expectations, Egg Donor America
   • Research studies: ClinicalTrials.gov, ResearchMatch

   Timeframe: 1-2 days

3. Verify eligibility requirements

   General requirements across donation types:

   • Age: 18+ (21+ for egg donation)
   • Valid ID and proof of address
   • Social Security Number
   • Good general health
   • No recent tattoos/piercings (typically within 4-12 months)
   • No history of IV drug use
   • BMI within specific ranges (typically 19-40 for plasma)

   Timeframe: Same day

4. Schedule initial screening

   Contact your chosen center to schedule your first visit. For plasma donation, many centers accept walk-ins, but appointments typically reduce wait times. For reproductive material donation, you'll need to complete an initial application online.

   Set aside 2-3 hours for your first plasma donation visit, as it includes comprehensive screening.

   Timeframe: Same day to 1 week

5. Prepare for your first visit

   To ensure a successful first donation:

   • Hydrate well (64+ oz of water in the 24 hours before)
   • Eat a protein-rich meal 3 hours before
   • Avoid fatty foods and alcohol the day before
   • Bring required documentation (ID, SSN, proof of address)
   • Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that can be rolled up
   • Plan for 2-3 hours for your first visit

   Timeframe: Day before donation

6. Complete medical screening

   Your initial screening typically includes:

   • Detailed medical history questionnaire
   • Physical examination
   • Vital signs check
   • Blood tests for protein levels and infectious diseases
   • For reproductive material: additional genetic screening

   Timeframe: First visit (1-2 hours)

7. Complete your first donation

   If you pass the screening, you can typically donate the same day for plasma. The process involves:

   • Plasma: Automated blood withdrawal, plasma separation, and return of remaining blood components (60-90 minutes)
   • Sperm: Private collection in a dedicated room (30 minutes)
   • Research studies: Varies by protocol
   • Egg donation: Requires weeks of preparation before the actual donation

   Timeframe: Same day as screening (for plasma)

8. Receive compensation

   Payment methods vary by center but typically include:

   • Prepaid debit cards (most common for plasma)
   • Direct deposit (common for research studies)
   • Check (typical for egg donation)

   For plasma donation, payment is usually loaded onto your card immediately after donation. For sperm donation, payment occurs after sample quality is verified (1-2 weeks).

   Timeframe: Immediate to 2 weeks

9. Schedule subsequent donations

   Establish your regular donation schedule:

   • Plasma: Maximum twice per week with at least 1 day between donations
   • Sperm: 1-3 times per week depending on center requirements
   • Research studies: Varies by protocol
   • Egg donation: Typically 4-6 months between cycles

   Timeframe: Before leaving your first donation