Folic acid (folate) blood test
Quick answer: This test measures folate, a B vitamin needed to make healthy red blood cells and DNA. Doctors order it to look into anaemia or poor nutrition, often with vitamin B12.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testYour doctor may ask you to fast for a few hours; follow the instructions given.
- In fertility careFolic acid is advised before and in early pregnancy to lower the chance of neural tube defects, whatever your blood level.
How the test is done
- 1You may be asked to fast for a few hours, as recent food can raise folate
- 2A needle draws blood from a vein
- 3The lab measures folate, often with vitamin B12
- 4Your doctor reads it with your blood count
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal ranges differ between labs and by age and sex, so discuss your result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A low level can be seen with poor diet, alcohol use, bowel conditions that affect absorption, pregnancy or some medicines. A high level is usually due to supplements and is rarely a concern.
Who usually has this test
People with anaemia with large red cells, poor nutrition, bowel problems or heavy alcohol use, and women planning pregnancy with risk factors.
Risks and aftercare
Expect a small bruise at most.
Names and options
Also called: folate, serum folate
Listed by the hospital as
- FOLIC ACID, SERUM
Questions about this test
Why is folic acid important before pregnancy?
Folic acid lowers the chance of neural tube defects such as spina bifida. Most guidelines advise taking it before conception and in early pregnancy.
Do I need a blood test before starting folic acid?
Usually not. Most women planning pregnancy are advised to take folic acid without testing. Your doctor may test if you have anaemia or other risk factors.
Why is B12 tested with folate?
Low B12 and low folate cause the same type of anaemia. Treating folate alone when B12 is low can hide B12 deficiency, so both are checked.
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.