Common Misconceptions About Kidney Donation: Separating Fact from Fiction
Many people have misconceptions about kidney donation. If you are seeking a living kidney donor for a transplant, it’s crucial to address misconceptions and provide accurate information to potential donors. Here are some common myths about kidney donation and the facts that set the record straight.
Do you have to be young to donate a kidney?
No, you do not have to be young to become a kidney donor. Age can be a concern due to several factors, but if an individual is healthy, they can donate a kidney at almost any age. Provided they are healthy, people can become donors into their late 70s, and there have even been several cases of living donors in their 80s, and at least one in their early 90s.
Does a kidney donor have to take medications for the rest of their life?
While transplant recipients must take medications to prevent organ rejection, kidney donors do not have to take ongoing medications as a result of the kidney donation.
Do kidney donors have dietary restrictions?
Kidney donors do not have to follow a special diet. After kidney donation surgery, kidney donors should eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. In general, kidney donors should avoid diets high in protein and salt and consult their doctor before taking any unusual herbs or supplements.
Can kidney donors drink after donation?
Yes, kidney donors can still drink alcohol after donating, although it’s best to drink in moderation to maintain optimal health.
Will a female kidney donor still be able to get pregnant after donation?
Yes, female kidney donors should be able to get pregnant and give birth after donating a kidney. Numerous studies have found that kidney donation does not affect fertility. However, it’s best to wait at least six months after donation to become pregnant to give the body time to recover from the surgery and adjust to living with one kidney.
Does donating a kidney negatively affect the donor’s sex life?
Donating a kidney should have no effect on the donor’s sex life. Most kidney donors can resume normal relationships within two weeks of donating.
Are gay people allowed to donate a kidney?
Many members of the LGBTQ+ community may think they are unable to become living kidney donors. This is a common misconception that is based on outdated information. In fact, anyone of any gender, gender identity, or sexual orientation is welcome to register to become a living donor.
Are people with tattoos allowed to donate a kidney?
People with tattoos can donate; however, individuals who have gotten a tattoo very recently may be asked to wait a short period of time before donation to ensure the tattoo did not cause any health issues or disease transmission during the tattooing process.
Is kidney donation against religious beliefs?
No religion formally forbids organ donation or is against transplantation from living donors. Most major religions support donation for transplantation, including Catholicism, Judaism, Islam, and Protestantism. In many cases, religions do not mandate or prohibit living donation, but leave it up to the individual.