How are stem cells donated?

There are two main methods:

1. Peripheral Blood Stem Cells (PBSC)

– You receive growth factor injections for 4 days.
– On day 5, blood is drawn and stem cells are collected using apheresis.
– It is painless, outpatient, and takes 3–5 hours.
Risks: Temporary bone/muscle pain, headache, fatigue. No long-term side effects reported. Most common method (>90%).

2. Bone Marrow Donation

– Performed under general anesthesia in a hospital.
– Stem cells are collected from the pelvic bones.
– Recovery within a week.
Risks: Anesthesia-related. You will be examined by an anesthesiologist. Minor side effects may include headache or fatigue. Only about 10% of global donations use this method.