Complete blood count (CBC, complete haemogram)
Quick answer: A complete blood count measures your red blood cells, haemoglobin, white blood cells and platelets. It is one of the most common tests, used for general check-ups, tiredness, infection, bleeding and before surgery or fertility treatment.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careA CBC is a routine test before IVF and in pregnancy, mainly to check for anaemia and low platelets.
How the test is done
- 1A nurse cleans the inside of your elbow
- 2Blood is drawn into a purple-top EDTA tube
- 3The tube is gently mixed to stop clotting
- 4An analyser counts the cells, and a smear is checked if needed
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Ranges differ between labs, by sex and in pregnancy, and small changes are common; discuss your report with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
Low haemoglobin can point to anaemia, a high white count to infection or inflammation, and low platelets to infections such as dengue or other causes. Small changes outside the range are common and often not significant.
Who usually has this test
Almost everyone at a check-up, people with fever or tiredness, pregnant women, and women before IVF.
Risks and aftercare
Bruising is possible; pressing on the site for a minute or two helps prevent it.
Names and options
Also called: CBC, complete haemogram, CBP, full blood count, FBC
Options
- Complete haemogram
- Complete blood count
Listed by the hospital as
- COMPLETE HAEMOGRAM, EDTA BLOOD
- COMPLETE BLOOD COUNT, EDTA BLOOD
Where this test fits in fertility care
- 1Fertility work-up
- 2Screening before IVF or IUIThis test
- 3During treatment
- 4After embryo transfer
- 5Pregnancy check-ups
- 6If treatment has not worked
The usual order. See every test at each stage →
Questions about this test
Do I need to fast for a CBC test?
No, fasting is not usually needed for a complete blood count. If it is being done with other tests such as fasting sugar or cholesterol, you may be asked to fast for those.
What is the difference between a CBC and a complete haemogram?
Both names are used for very similar tests that count red cells, white cells and platelets. A haemogram may also include ESR or a blood smear, depending on the lab. Your report will list exactly what was measured.
Can a CBC detect infection?
A CBC can show signs of infection, such as a high or low white cell count. It cannot usually say which germ is responsible.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.