Periods, pregnancy & myths: What’s stopping Indian women from donating blood?

In a country of over 1.4 billion people, only a fraction donates blood regularly and among them, women remain severely underrepresented. Despite the growing awareness about the importance of voluntary blood donation, the participation of Indian women continues to be limited. The reasons aren’t just medical, they’re cultural, social, and psychological.

The Menstruation Misconception

One of the most widespread myths in India is that women cannot or should not donate blood during their menstrual cycle. This belief stems from the assumption that women are already losing blood and may become too weak. Scientifically, however, a healthy woman with normal hemoglobin levels is eligible to donate blood, even during menstruation. Yet, social stigma and lack of correct information keep many away. For most women, the confusion starts early. In schools and homes, menstruation is often treated as a taboo topic. Health education is minimal, and discussions around blood donation rarely address menstruation explicitly. As a result, many grow up assuming it’s unsafe or simply not allowed. “Women are biologically just as capable as men of donating blood, but they’re often held back by myths and misinformation. It’s time we correct these misconceptions and empower women to contribute to this life-saving act,” says Dr. Brunda M S, Sr. Consultant - Internal Medicine, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore.

Pregnancy and Postpartum: A Temporary Pause, not a Lifetime Ban

It is medically advised that women do not donate blood during pregnancy and for at least six months after childbirth or until breastfeeding stops. However, these temporary restrictions are often misunderstood as permanent ones. Once women step into motherhood, they are rarely encouraged to return to donation. The focus shifts entirely to child-rearing, and their own health or ability to contribute as donors is sidelined.

Cultural Conditioning and Myths

In many parts of India, blood is considered sacred and finite. The idea of voluntarily giving away blood evokes fear and suspicion. Myths such as “giving blood makes you weak” or “women don’t have enough blood to spare” persist, particularly among older generations. Women often face resistance from within the family. In rural areas, social restrictions on mobility and decision-making make it even harder for women to step forward. Even in urban spaces, many women shy away due to lack of support or misinformation.

Anemia: A Real Barrier

Low hemoglobin is one of the most common reasons women are turned away at blood donation camps. According to the National Family Health Survey, over 50% of Indian women of reproductive age are anemic. This makes it difficult for many to qualify for donation. However, this isn’t a reason to exclude women from the conversation rather, it’s a call to action. By addressing nutritional deficiencies, promoting iron-rich diets, and improving access to preventive healthcare, we can help more women meet the criteria to become donors. Regular check-ups, awareness about iron supplementation, and menstrual health management are key enablers.

A Lifesaving Potential

Every healthy woman who meets the eligibility criteria can donate blood once every three months just like men. Her contribution could save lives in surgeries, trauma cases, childbirth emergencies, or for patients with chronic illnesses.

Empowering women to donate blood is not just about increasing supply. It’s about equity, awareness, and recognizing their right and ability to be lifesavers. The more we normalize female participation in donation drives, the more resilient our healthcare system becomes.

It’s time to break the silence, dismantle the myths, and open the doors for Indian women to take their rightful place as regular blood donors.