Donating blood

[0331FTW]

I'm going to donate blood this weekend to drop my hematocrit levels. Is there anything I should know before I go? I haven't donated since I got on TRT but I heard you're not supposed to tell them you're on it.. And also who has donated double reds? Is that just two pints?

[almostgone]

I'm going to donate blood this weekend to drop my hematocrit levels. Is there anything I should know before I go? I haven't donated since I got on TRT but I heard you're not supposed to tell them you're on it.. And also who has donated double reds? Is that just two pints?

If you are on a prescribed TRT, they have no problems with it. You can donate double RBC every 112 days or do a whole blood donation every 56 days.
Info on double RBC:
Blood Donation Types | Whole Blood, Plasma, Autologous | American Red Cross

The day prior to donations, I make an extra effort to drink more water than usual and generally I take it easy post donation. You may want to call ahead to your donation center and mention that you want to do a double RBC. The blood bank here prefers to make an appointment for double RBC donations, but they don't always require an appointment if they aren't busy.
There is a bit of paperwork to do prior to donation. This is where they will cover your medical, military, and travel history. Afterwards, they will check your BP and your hemoglobin.
If you have ever done a whole blood donation, about the only difference with a double RBC is they will be returning some of your fluids and some saline ( I believe) and the donation takes longer.

[2Sox]

^^^^This covers all the bases. The only thing I'd ad is to bring along an electrolyte replacement drink with you. As Almost says, hydration in very important. When I go, I usually bring along two big bottles of Gatorade - just for good measure. If you don't drink enough, you may feel faint when you're done. This happened to me.

You do not have to divulge that you are on TRT since it is a prescribed medication that is not on the list of forbidden meds for donation. If you read the questionnaire carefully this will be clear to you.