[surprizzzed]

My friend is in hospital and a transfusion has been recommended. We're after information, pro's and con's, alternatives, risks etc

[.Jerry.]

I had a complete blood exchange at birth, but that's no help for the information you need!

My daughter had a blood transfusion after being born prematurely. She was struggling to gain weight and was very weak. The BT helped give her strength and she did much better afterwards.

I assume it all depends on why the blood transfusion is recommended...

[abcd_efg]

I did after the birth of my first baby due to a large amount of blood loss. I can't say i researched the risks or anything, but it was a simple procedure and did what it was meant to do, no problems at all.

[soontobegran]

I have had several, what is it that you want to know OP?
We have extremely well regulated and safe Blood Banks in Australia which means there is very little to worry about.
There is actually no alternative that works as well for severe anaemia.

[creepersgonnacre...]

they don't just say "oh lets just give her a blood transfusion" it is a serious matter and only recommended if needed. Like STBG said it is highly regulated here.
I had an iron infusion for severe anaemia but my levels were just a tad high for a transfusion and I was close to delivery anyway

[AvadaKedavra]

My friend is in hospital and a transfusion has been recommended. We're after information, pro's and con's, alternatives, risks etc

Maybe your friend should make a decision based on the advice of her medically trained caregivers who are familiar with get medical situation.

Rather than ask a bunch of random lay people who don't know a thing about your friend.

[Becky Thatcher]

Maybe your friend should make a decision based on the advice of her medically trained caregivers who are familiar with get medical situation.

Rather than ask a bunch of random lay people who don't know a thing about your friend.

Blunt, but I agree with this.

[whale-woman]

they don't just say "oh lets just give her a blood transfusion" it is a serious matter and only recommended if needed. Like STBG said it is highly regulated here.

You have to VERY VERY anaemic to be offered a transfusion. She'll feel so much better after it.

[Superman+4sister...]

I had a blood transfusion after a severe PPH. I was literally glued to the bed, I couldn't even sit up. After the transfusion I was able to get and head home to care for myself and my family. Absolutely the right decision for me.

Hope all goes well for your friend

[hiddensecrets]

Maybe your friend should make a decision based on the advice of her medically trained caregivers who are familiar with get medical situation.

Rather than ask a bunch of random lay people who don't know a thing about your friend.

I agree but to answer your question:

Pro's-
If the friend is in need of blood (like it sounds like they are otherwise it would not have been recommended) due to anemia this is the quickest way and easiest.

Blood is well screened in australia, risks are minimal and the transfusion will be well observed.

Cons-
Not being able to donate yourself for 12 months


I had to have on after a hysterectomy when my blood levels dropped way too low. Three bags and I was much better than I had been in a while. I am glad that I had it done (although I pretty much had no choice) as I was pretty much unconscious before hand. Tell your friend to listen CAREFULLY to the medical advice given and make the decision accordingly.