Background and Objectives Most men have larger blood volumes and iron stores, making them more suitable blood donors; however, women dominate the donor population in Stockholm. Motives for cessation and returning were examined in a group of lapsing young male donors, in order to improve retention. Methods Demographic studies of the donor population. An online survey was sent to 1012 lapsing male donors aged 18–35 years. Questions focused on reasons for lapsing, returning and donor motivation. Results Demographic studies showed a predominance of female donors, especially in younger age groups. Most lapsing male donors were 18–35 years old. In this age group, there was a large turnover of male donors. The most common reason for lapsing was simply falling out of habit despite repeated invitations. Other reasons were lack of time, work, travel, new sex partner and change in residence. Adverse events were of less importance. The majority indicated that they would return for donation if they had more time and/or received yet another invitation. Donors lapsing after a single donation would significantly more often donate again, than repeat donors, if they were given information on the use of their blood. Furthermore, single‐time donors found the time spent donating significantly more important. Conclusions Increased accessibility and repeated invitations are essential for retention of young male donors. Time constraints are important, suggesting improvements in increased availability as well as shortening of visits. Young men also need help integrating blood donation routines into their life.

Background and Objectives The blood donor history questionnaire, together with blood samples, aims to ensure that blood donation is safe for both donor and recipient. Donors’ interpretation of the questions is of the utmost importance. The objective of this study was to examine how blood donors in Sweden interpret the donor history questionnaire and to assess the need for rewording any questions. Materials and Methods Twelve cognitive interviews were conducted with blood donors. A survey was distributed at blood centres in two regions in Sweden. Altogether, 671 donors returned the survey. Results Although a majority claimed to understand the donor history questions, not all donors reported on their medications or healthcare episodes. There was a significant correlation between donors who did not report on medications and the third of donors who did not read the donor information. The concept of being in full health varied for different donors and many were uncertain about the definition of new sexual partner. Conclusion Overall, the blood donors were satisfied with the readability of the questions. However, some questions turned out to be more difficult to interpret, and may need to be reworded. The study demonstrates the need for easy access to blood safety information.