Plasma Donation: A Lucrative Side Hustle or a Risky Exploitation?

If you are looking for a way to make some extra cash, you might have heard of donating plasma.

Plasma is the liquid part of your blood that carries nutrients, hormones, and proteins throughout your body.

It is also used to treat various diseases and medical conditions, such as hemophilia, immune disorders, and COVID-19.

Donating plasma is not the same as donating blood.

When you donate plasma, a machine separates the plasma from the rest of your blood and returns the blood cells to your body.

This process takes longer than donating blood, but it also allows you to donate more frequently. You can donate plasma up to twice a week, or 13 times a year.

But is donating plasma a good side hustle? How much money can you earn from it?

And what are the benefits and risks of doing it?

In this article, we will answer these questions and help you decide if plasma donation is right for you.

How Much Money Can You Earn From Donating Plasma?

The amount of money you can earn from donating plasma depends on several factors, such as the plasma center you choose, the time it takes to donate, and your body weight.

Different plasma centers have different payment rates and incentives, so it is a good idea to compare them before you decide where to donate.

According to some sources, people giving plasma are typically paid $30 to $70 per donation.

With incentives, you can make up to $400 or more per month.

For example, one plasma center offers $50 for the first five donations, and $75 for the sixth and seventh donations in a month. Another plasma center offers $20 for the first donation, $50 for the second donation, and $10 bonuses for the third and fourth donations in a week.

The time it takes to donate plasma also affects how much money you can earn.

The first time you donate, you will need to create an account, watch safety videos, and undergo a physical exam. This can take up to two and a half hours.

After that, each donation can take from 45 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the center is and how fast your plasma flows.

Your body weight also determines how much plasma you can donate and how much money you can earn.

The more you weigh, the more plasma you can give and the more you get paid.

For example, one plasma center pays $25 for donors who weigh less than 150 pounds, $40 for donors who weigh between 150 and 175 pounds, and $50 for donors who weigh more than 175 pounds.

What Are the Benefits of Donating Plasma?

Donating plasma has several benefits, both for you and for others.

Here are some of them:

• You can help save lives. Plasma is used to treat many life-threatening conditions, such as bleeding disorders, immune deficiencies, burns, shock, and trauma. It is also used to produce vaccines and antibodies for diseases like COVID-19. By donating plasma, you are contributing to the health and well-being of millions of people around the world.
• You can get a mini-checkup. Before you donate plasma, you will have to pass a health screening that checks your temperature, pulse, blood pressure, and hemoglobin levels. You will also have your blood tested for infectious diseases, such as HIV and hepatitis. This can help you monitor your health and alert you of any potential issues.
• You can refresh your blood. According to some studies, regular plasma and blood donation can improve your circulatory system and lower your risk of heart disease and stroke. This is because donating plasma reduces the viscosity of your blood and allows it to flow better. Your body also replenishes the plasma you donate within 24 hours, so you are not losing any vital fluids.
• You can boost your mood. Donating plasma can make you feel good about yourself, knowing that you are doing something meaningful and helpful for others. Many people find donating plasma a rewarding and satisfying experience. It can also be a way to meet new people and socialize with other donors and staff.
• You can earn extra money. Donating plasma can be a great way to supplement your income and pay for your expenses. You can use the money you earn to cover your bills, buy groceries, save for a vacation, or treat yourself to something nice. You can also donate plasma as often as you want, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria and follow the guidelines.

What Are the Risks of Donating Plasma?

Donating plasma is generally a safe and regulated procedure, but it can also have some risks and side effects.

These include:

• Feeling faint or dizzy. The loss of fluid and blood pressure changes can cause some people to feel lightheaded or nauseous during or after the donation. This is usually mild and temporary, and can be prevented by staying hydrated, eating well, and resting after the donation. If you feel unwell, you should inform the staff and stop the donation.
• Having bruising or bleeding. The needle insertion can cause some bleeding, bruising, or inflammation around the donation site. This is normal and should heal within a few days. You can reduce the risk of bruising by applying pressure and ice to the area, and avoiding heavy lifting or exercise for a few hours.
• Having an allergic reaction. Some people may have an allergic reaction to the disinfectant, anticoagulant, or tubing used during the donation. This can cause itching, swelling, or redness at the site or in other parts of the body. If you have a history of allergies, you should inform the staff before you donate. If you have a severe reaction, you should seek medical attention immediately.
• Having an infection or embolism. Although rare, there is a possibility of getting an infection or an air bubble in your blood (embolism) from the donation. This can happen if the equipment is not sterile, the needle is not inserted properly, or the tubing is disconnected. To prevent this, you should make sure the center follows strict safety protocols, and report any signs of infection or embolism, such as fever, pain, or shortness of breath.

Is Donating Plasma a Good Side Hustle for You?

Donating plasma can be a good side hustle for many people, but it is not for everyone.

You should consider your health, availability, and motivation before you decide to donate. You should also do your research and find a reputable plasma center that pays well and treats you well.

Here are some questions you can ask yourself to determine if donating plasma is a good side hustle for you:

Are you eligible to donate plasma?

To donate plasma, you must be at least 18 years old, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in good health.

You must also pass a physical exam and a blood test, and have a valid ID and proof of address. You must not have any medical conditions or medications that may affect your plasma quality or safety.

You can check the eligibility criteria of the plasma center you choose before you go.

Do you have enough time to donate plasma?

Donating plasma can take up to two hours per visit, and you can donate up to twice a week.

You should also factor in the travel time and the waiting time at the center.

You should make sure you have enough time in your schedule to donate plasma regularly and consistently, and that it does not interfere with your other commitments or obligations.

Do you enjoy donating plasma?

Donating plasma can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, but it can also be uncomfortable and boring for some people.

You should consider how you feel about needles, machines, and blood, and how you cope with pain, stress, and boredom.

You should also think about what motivates you to donate plasma, and whether it is worth the effort and money for you.

Conclusion

Donating plasma can be a good side hustle for many people, as it can help you earn extra money, improve your health, and save lives.

However, it can also have some risks and side effects, and it may not suit everyone’s lifestyle and preferences. You should weigh the pros and cons of donating plasma, and do your research before you start.

If you decide to donate plasma, you should follow the guidelines and tips to make your donation safe and successful.

References:

• Donating plasma is a great side hustle — my husband and I made $1,500 in our first month – https://www.businessinsider.com/personal-finance/is-donating-plasma-good-side-hustle
• What to Know About Donating Plasma for Money – https://money.usnews.com/money/personal-finance/articles/what-to-know-about-donating-plasma-for-money
• How Much Do You Get Paid to Donate Plasma? – https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/finance/how-much-donating-plasma-pays