Bone Marrow Donation Process

Registration
It is recommended that you join the NMDP Registry. This organization can answer questions regarding the donation process and any risks to you as the donor. You will be able to make an informed decision about becoming a donor.

You will be required to complete a health questionnaire and sign a consent form. If you are identified as a potential match for someone, arrangements will be made to provide another blood sample to verify matching blood type.

Eligibility Guidelines
Donors should be between the ages of 18-60 and in good health.

You should avoid donating bone marrow if you have HIV, serious asthma, back problems, cancer, high blood pressure, lyme disease, malaria, obesity, organ transplants, pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, or tuberculosis.

Donation Process
The process is a small surgical procedure which takes only a few hours. The donor is put under general or regional anesthesia and the marrow is removed from the pelvic bone.

Your bone marrow will naturally replenish itself. Patients often report minor discomfort, bone pain, and soreness for a few days up to a few weeks.