Jehovah’s Witnesses have updated their guidance on blood transfusions, giving members the right to decide whether their own blood can be used during medical treatments.
The policy still prohibits receiving another person’s blood but now allows individual discretion in life-saving procedures.
Gerrit Lösch, a member of the church’s Governing Body, explained in a video statement on Friday that the clarification aims to respect personal conscience while remaining consistent with biblical teachings.
“Regarding the use of one’s own blood… a Christian must decide for himself how his own blood will be handled in the course of a surgical procedure, medical test, or current therapy,” Lösch said.
“The Bible does not comment on the use of a person’s own blood in medical and surgical care.”
He cited examples of modern medical techniques that members already accept, including blood tests, heart-lung machines, cell salvage devices, and kidney dialysis. Lösch added that members can now choose whether blood removed during surgery may be stored and returned to them.
“Some Christians may decide that they would allow their blood to be stored and then be given back to them. Others may object. Each Christian must make his personal decision on all matters involving the use of his own blood with regard to medical or surgical care,” he said.
The clarification comes amid renewed debate in Nigeria following the death of social media personality and cancer patient Mensah Omolola, popularly known as AuntieEsther.
She rejected a recommended blood transfusion on religious grounds and relied on alternative treatments supported by Nigerians who donated over ₦30 million. Her passing has reignited discussions about balancing faith with medical advice.
Historically, Jehovah’s Witnesses have avoided blood transfusions based on biblical directives that view blood as representing life.
Scriptures cited include Genesis 9:4, Leviticus 17:10, Deuteronomy 12:23, and Acts 15:28–29. The church has consistently clarified that this prohibition does not prevent members from seeking quality medical care.
“God views blood as representing life. So we avoid taking blood not only in obedience to God but also out of respect for him as the Giver of life,” a 2019 statement from the church reads.
Medical experts note that bloodless techniques—such as cell salvage, dialysis, and heart-lung machines—allow patients to adhere to religious principles while receiving safe and effective treatment.
