Finding the right tests…
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Finding the right tests…
Hormonal
Folic acid, also called vitamin B9, is the form measured in this blood test. Your body needs it to make new red blood cells and to build the DNA inside every dividing cell. Low folic acid can point to poor diet, an absorption problem such as celiac disease, or a type of anemia called megaloblastic anemia, especially when checked alongside vitamin B12. Doctors also check it before and during pregnancy, since adequate folic acid lowers the chance of neural tube defects like spina bifida in the baby. The test needs a 6-hour fast, and some medicines can throw off the reading.
The test measures folic acid (folate) circulating in your blood, reported in nanograms per millilitre (ng/mL). It's usually ordered together with a vitamin B12 test, because both deficiencies can cause similar types of anemia and it helps to see them side by side. Your doctor may also order it on its own to check nutritional status or before starting a pregnancy.
Folic acid (vitamin B9) is a nutrient your body can't make on its own. You get it from leafy vegetables, legumes, and fortified foods, or from a supplement. It's needed to produce new red blood cells and to build DNA in every cell that divides, which is why a deficiency tends to show up first in fast-growing tissues like bone marrow.
- Symptoms of anemia, such as tiredness, pale skin, or breathlessness - Poor diet or a suspected absorption problem, such as celiac disease - Alongside a vitamin B12 test, since both deficiencies cause similar blood changes - Before or during pregnancy, since folic acid lowers the chance of neural tube defects like spina bifida - Monitoring people on medicines known to interfere with folate, such as certain antiepileptic drugs
This test usually needs a 6-hour fast before the blood draw. Tell your doctor about any folic acid supplements, birth control pills, or antibiotics you're taking, since these can change the result. Your doctor may also ask you to pause folic acid supplements briefly before testing, so follow their specific instructions.
A commonly used reference range is about 2.7 to 17.0 ng/mL, though exact ranges vary by lab and should be read against the one printed on your report. Your doctor will interpret your number alongside your symptoms and other blood work.
Yes, this test usually needs about 6 hours of fasting beforehand. Confirm the exact instructions with your doctor or the centre when you book.
Supplements can affect your result, so ask your doctor whether to pause them and for how long before your blood draw. Never stop any prescribed supplement without your doctor's advice.
Both folate and vitamin B12 deficiency can cause a similar type of anemia, so checking them together helps your doctor tell the two apart. Treatment differs depending on which one is low.
This page is general information about the test, not medical advice. Your own report's reference ranges apply — please discuss your results with your doctor.
Yes, low folic acid around conception and in early pregnancy is linked to a higher chance of neural tube defects such as spina bifida in the baby. That's why many doctors recommend folic acid supplements before and during early pregnancy.
Common causes include a diet low in folate-rich foods, an absorption problem such as celiac disease, heavy alcohol use, or certain medicines. Your doctor will look into the cause once a deficiency is confirmed.
Yes, birth control pills, some antibiotics, and antimalarial drugs are known to interfere with folate levels. Tell your doctor about everything you're taking before the test.