MSM Deferral (Historical)

CHANGES TO BLOOD DONOR ELIGIBILITY FOR GAY AND BISEXUAL MALE DONORS

As of October 19, 2023, donors are no longer deferred according to MSM (Men-Who-Have-Sex-With-Men) criteria. Instead, in accordance with FDA guidance, all donors will be asked the same questions about high-risk sexual behavior, reflecting a data-driven approach to maintaining blood safety.

This historic change in approach to donor eligibility is significant progress, resulting in a blood donation process that is more inclusive than ever before. Stanford Blood Center enthusiastically supports this change, aligning the United States with countries like Canada and the United Kingdom. (Read more about the Individual Donor Assessment)

Blood Donor Reentry

If you have been previously deferred at Stanford Blood Center for MSM and you would like to be reinstated for community blood donations, please contact our Medical Services department at 650-723-2597 before your donation appointment. Since the reinstatement process can take several days to complete, clearance must be completed prior to your donation appointment.