Can you change your mind about donating a kidney?
Living kidney donation in the UK is entirely voluntary. If you’re thinking about donating a kidney, it’s important to know that you can change your mind at any time.
Whether you’re early in the process or close to the operation date, there’s never any obligation to go ahead. Your decision will always be respected, and your health and wellbeing will remain the top priority.
Understanding Consent in Living Kidney Donation
Living kidney donation is based on informed and ongoing consent. This means that, before anything happens, you must fully understand what the donation involves and agree to it freely.
According to NHS guidelines, consent must be:
- Voluntary – given freely, without pressure or influence from someone else.
- Informed – based on a clear understanding of the risks, benefits, and alternatives.
- Continuous – you have the right to change your mind at any stage.
This is a fundamental part of UK law and medical ethics. The transplant team’s role is to protect you, not to persuade you. They will support whatever decision you make at all points of your donation journey.
Withdrawing Consent During the Evaluation Process
Before you can donate a kidney, you will go through a number of tests and checks. These may include:
- Medical tests
- A psychological assessment
- Meetings with transplant professionals
- Counselling and support sessions
This process is designed not only to check if you’re physically suitable, but also to give you time to reflect emotionally and practically on whether to donate a kidney. You can withdraw from the process at any time. There’s no pressure to continue at any point.
If you do choose to stop, the healthcare team will support your decision fully and without judgment. They’re trained to put your wellbeing first, and they will not share your reasons with others unless you ask them to.
Can You Change Your Mind Before Surgery?
Yes. Even on the day of surgery, you can still say no to donating a kidney.
Before any operation takes place, the medical team will go through a final consent check. They will make sure you still feel confident in your decision and have no doubts or concerns. If you do have second thoughts, the transplant will be postponed or cancelled – no questions asked.
The transplant team is there to protect your physical and emotional health. They understand that making this decision is a deeply personal journey, and they will never push you to go ahead if you are unsure.
What Happens If You Decide Not to Go Ahead?
If you decide not to proceed with the donation, the process is stopped immediately and handled with care and confidentiality.
You will still receive support from the transplant team if needed. Your decision will not affect your access to NHS care in any way, then or in the future.
Emotional Considerations and Support
There are many reasons someone might change their mind about donating a kidney. Whatever your reason, it’s valid – and you will be supported.
If you are feeling uncertain at any point, you can speak to an independent living donor advocate, transplant counsellor, or a member of the care team. Their role is to support you with whatever decision is right for you, not to influence your decision.
Remember: Living kidney donation is a choice – and it’s always your choice. If you change your mind, you will be met with understanding and support at every step.