![Thumbnail of a pregnant lady lying on a bed with her partner and doctor standing next to her](/sites/default/files/styles/390_x_280/public/2021-09/parents-baby-and-doctor-white-tile-381x291_0.png.webp?itok=02MGphBt)
Reasons for a transfusion
There are all sorts of reasons someone might need a transfusion including cancer, childbirth and anaemia.
Find out more![illustration of a patient seated with a doctor beside him with speech bubbles](/sites/default/files/styles/390_x_280/public/2021-09/doctor-patient-discussion-content-tile-382x281.png.webp?itok=jIFUTjkH)
Receiving a transfusion
Know what to expect on the day and what questions you should ask your doctor before you get your transfusion.
What to expect![illustration of a woman holding red and yellow droplets in each hand](/sites/default/files/styles/390_x_280/public/2021-09/lady-holding-blood-and_plasma-content-tile-382x281.png.webp?itok=w4ffg3QY)
Types of transfusion
Not all transfusions are the same. Red cells, platelets and plasma all treat different conditions.
See what they are![illustration of a doctor in a white coat with stethoscope](/sites/default/files/styles/390_x_280/public/2021-09/female-doctor-close-up-white-content-tile-382x281.png.webp?itok=HKKfI0aB)
Avoid a transfusion
Like any medical procedure, transfusion isn’t without risks. Sometimes, avoiding a transfusion is the best way forward.
How to avoid it![illustration of a woman holding a red blood pack](/sites/default/files/styles/390_x_280/public/2021-09/lady-holding-bloodbag-content-tile-382x281.png.webp?itok=wGaqqv7A)
Blood for transfusion
The journey of blood is really incredible – it comes from our generous donors, and passes through our processing centres and labs on its way to you.
Find out how![illustration of a woman seated on a couch reading a book](/sites/default/files/styles/390_x_280/public/2021-09/person-couch-cat-content-tile-white-381x291.png.webp?itok=-nQikDwP)
Further resources
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Check out these handy resources for more about transfusion and safety.
View additional resources![a child is jogging on sand alongside some trees, the sea is in the background](/sites/default/files/styles/stacked_cta_640_width/public/2021-09/happy-child-beach-CTA-stack-790x875.jpg.webp?itok=AQuxiKYm)