Yes. Healthy women can safely donate blood and are an essential part of a strong donor community. However, there are a few additional considerations related to iron levels, menstruation, pregnancy and body size.

Basic eligibility is the same

In general, women must meet the same core criteria as men:

·       Within the allowed age range.

·       Meet at least the minimum weight.

·       Hemoglobin level above the safe cut‑off.

·       No major illnesses or risky infections.

If these are satisfied, there is no medical reason to avoid donation just because someone is female.

Iron and hemoglobin considerations

On average, women have:

·       Slightly lower hemoglobin than men.

·       Additional iron loss during menstruation and pregnancies.

Because of this, women are:

·       More likely to have low iron or borderline hemoglobin at screening.

·       Sometimes advised to donate less frequently (for example, 2–3 times per year instead of 3–4).

Encouraging a balanced, iron‑rich diet (lentils, beans, leafy greens, meat if they eat it, iron‑fortified foods) is especially helpful for regular female donors.

Menstruation, pregnancy and breastfeeding

·       Menstruation (periods):
If a woman feels well and does not have very heavy bleeding or severe cramps, she can usually donate during or shortly after her period. Some may prefer to avoid donation on the heaviest days to reduce the risk of feeling weak.

·       Pregnancy:
Pregnant women should not donate. The body is already working hard to support both mother and baby, and iron demands are high.

·       Post‑pregnancy and breastfeeding:
After delivery, many guidelines recommend waiting at least 6–12 months before donating, especially if breastfeeding. This allows time for recovery of blood volume and iron stores.

Cultural myths and reassurance

Common myths in South Asian contexts include:

·       “Donation makes women infertile.”

·       “Women will have complications in pregnancy if they donate.”

·       “Women are too weak to donate.”

There is no scientific evidence for these claims if a woman meets the normal eligibility criteria. Emphasize in your Info Desk content that:

“Women’s health is protected by the same strict rules as men’s. The key is eligibility and proper intervals, not gender.”