Jehovah’s Witnesses Allow Personal Choice on Using One’s Own Blood in Medical Care

Jehovah’s Witnesses have updated their blood transfusion policy. Members can now decide whether to use their own stored blood during surgery or tests. In a statement, Governing Body member Gerrit Lösch clarified that transfusions of another person’s blood remain banned. He noted that the Bible does not forbid using one’s own blood and that each Christian should follow their conscience. This shift follows the high-profile case of Nigerian social media figure AuntieEsther. She refused donor blood for cancer treatment and sparked national debate on faith versus medical advice. Historically, Witnesses avoid blood based on biblical passages. Today they often use bloodless techniques—such as cell salvage and heart–lung machines—to align medical care with their beliefs.

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