Blood type compatibility: which blood types are compatible with each other?
When you are compatible with someone else's blood type, it means that your body can accept their blood without any problems.
October 13, 2022
Do you know your blood type? It's important to know because blood types can be compatible or incompatible with one another. In this article, we discuss the different blood types, which ones are compatible and the benefits of being compatible with someone else's blood type. So, which blood type are you?
Blood type compatibility chart
There are four main blood types: A, B, AB and O. Combinations of proteins and sugars, called antigens, on the surface of red blood cells are what make the blood type either compatible or incompatible with other blood types.
- For example, if you have type A blood, you can only receive type A or type O blood. You cannot receive type B or type AB blood.
- If you have type B blood, you can only receive type B or type O blood. You cannot receive type A or type AB blood.
- If you have type AB blood, you can receive all blood types.
- If you have type O blood, you can only receive type O blood.
What are the benefits of being compatible with someone else's blood type?
When you are compatible with someone else's blood type, it means that your body can accept their blood without any problems. Having a blood type that is compatible with blood types other than your own is important because it can help to save lives in emergency situations.
For example, if someone is bleeding and needs a blood transfusion, it's important to give them the right blood type so that their body can accept it. If they receive the wrong blood type, their body will reject it, which can cause serious problems.
Because O-negative blood can be given to anyone, people with this blood type are considered "universal donors." O-negative blood is essential to have on hand in an emergency when there isn't time to check a patient's blood type.
You're our type!
Now that you know more about blood types and compatibility, which blood type are you? If you don't know your blood type, check to see if you're eligible to donate blood. It's an easy way to find out your blood type so that you’re able to donate blood and you could potentially save a life!
