The Jehovah Witnesses have announced an adjustment to their long-standing doctrine on blood transfusions, permitting members to decide whether to store and later use their own blood for medical procedures.
The update, described by the group as a “clarification,” allows individuals to have their blood drawn and preserved ahead of surgeries where significant blood loss may occur.
However, the denomination reaffirmed its continued prohibition on receiving blood transfusions from others, a core aspect of its beliefs.
A member of the governing body, Gerrit Lösch, said the decision followed “extensive prayer and consideration,” stressing that personal conscience should guide members’ choices regarding the use of their own blood.
“Each Christian must decide for himself how his own blood will be used in all medical and surgical care,” he said.
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The doctrine is rooted in the group’s interpretation of biblical teachings instructing followers to “abstain from blood,” which they apply to both dietary practices and medical treatments.
While certain procedures involving continuous circulation of blood, such as dialysis, have previously been accepted, storing blood for later use had traditionally not been allowed.
The development has generated mixed reactions, particularly among former members.
Some have welcomed it as a progressive step, while others argue it does not go far enough, pointing to the continued ban on donor blood, which can be critical in emergency situations.
Medical experts note that using a patient’s own blood known as autologous transfusion can reduce risks such as infections and immune reactions, although it may not always be practical, especially in urgent or resource-limited settings.
The organisation, which has over nine million members worldwide, reiterated that its core belief regarding the sanctity of blood remains unchanged, even as it adapts to evolving medical practices.
