How To Donate Blood In Lviv
If you’re staying in Lviv for a while and want to support the local community in a very direct way, donating blood is a meaningful option. I went through the process myself many times and wanted to share the steps, location, and things to keep in mind so you know what to expect. Want to find out how to donate blood in Lviv? You will read it here! Don’t be afraid, my first time donating every was here in Lviv!
Where to Go
The easiest and most reliable place to donate blood in Lviv is the Regional Blood Donation Center, located at Pekarska Street 65. It is a well-organized center with friendly staff who guide you through each step.
How To Donate Blood In Lviv
Registration at Reception
When you enter, go to the reception desk. They will ask for your address (a hostel or hotel address is fine), how long you have been in Ukraine, and will check your passport.
Officially, you need to be staying in Ukraine for more than three months to be eligible to donate. In general, they don’t pay too much attention to that but once in a while someone might stop you from donating if they hear you just arrived.You will also be asked whether you want to donate for children or for the army. After that, they register your details.
Initial Testing
You will be sent to another room where they test your blood type, hemoglobin levels, and a few other indicators.Medical Screening
If the first test results are okay, you continue to a screening room. Here, they measure your height, weight, and blood pressure. You will also answer a few health questions, such as whether you have had any tattoos or piercings in the last eight months, if you are taking any medication, or if you have certain medical conditions.Tea and Biscuits
Before donating, you are asked to drink sweet tea and eat a few biscuits. This helps increase your blood pressure and prepares your body for the donation.Donation
Next, go to the first floor and give your form to the nurse at the desk. You will receive labeled tubes and can sit down in one of the available chairs. The staff will handle the donation process. Afterward, you will be asked to sit and rest for a few minutes to make sure you feel fine.Signing Out and Free Lunch
Return to the reception area to sign some documents. You will receive a voucher for a free lunch at a nearby café. It is a small but appreciated gesture.Notes and Things to Know
Age limit: Usually only people under 60 are accepted.
Weight: If you weigh under 50 kilograms (and sometimes even under 55), you may not be allowed to donate.
Bruises: Large or visible bruises can be a reason for rejection, depending on the doctor.
Frequency: Officially, you can donate once every three months. In some cases, especially when blood is urgently needed for soldiers, they may allow donation after two months.
They use a different blood type system as in the west so you wont see things like A+ but rather RH(II). It is more common in former USSR countries from what I’ve been told.
There is another donation location in the north of the city, and occasionally a mobile donation bus drives through Lviv. Still, the center at Pekarska Street 65 is the most convenient and dependable option.Thank you for donating!
Donations save lives! Especially during times of war the demand is very high so many people go whenever they can. It doesn’t take much time and has lots of impact!
