Ferritin blood test
Quick answer: A ferritin test measures ferritin, a protein that stores iron, and shows how much iron your body has in reserve. Doctors order it to look for iron deficiency or iron overload, often when you are tired or have anaemia.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careLow iron stores are common before and during pregnancy and can be treated.
How the test is done
- 1You can usually come at any time of day
- 2A needle draws blood from a vein in your arm
- 3The lab measures ferritin
- 4Your doctor reads it with your blood count and other iron tests
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Infection and inflammation can raise ferritin, so discuss your result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A low level can be seen with iron deficiency, often from heavy periods, pregnancy, poor diet or blood loss. A high level can be seen with inflammation, infection, liver disease or iron overload.
Who usually has this test
People with tiredness, hair thinning or anaemia, women with heavy periods, pregnant women, and people at risk of iron overload.
Risks and aftercare
Expect only a small bruise at most.
Names and options
Also called: serum ferritin, iron stores
Listed by the hospital as
- FERRITIN, SERUM
Questions about this test
Can ferritin be normal even if I am short of iron?
Yes. Infection or inflammation can raise ferritin and hide iron deficiency. Your doctor may check CRP or other iron tests.
Why is ferritin checked in women trying to conceive?
Low iron stores are common in women with periods and can worsen in pregnancy. Building up iron beforehand helps your energy and pregnancy health.
Should I stop iron tablets before a ferritin test?
Do not stop any supplement without asking your doctor. Tell them what you take, as it can affect how they read the result.
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.