Haemoglobin (Hb) test
Quick answer: A haemoglobin test measures the amount of haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. It is used to check for anaemia, for example with tiredness or heavy periods, and is routine in pregnancy and before surgery.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careHaemoglobin is checked before fertility treatment and several times in pregnancy, as anaemia is common and treatable.
How the test is done
- 1A blood sample is taken from a vein or by finger prick
- 2For a vein sample, a purple-top tube is used
- 3An analyser or a portable meter measures the haemoglobin
- 4The result is given in grams per decilitre
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Normal ranges differ for women, men, children and pregnancy, and between labs; discuss your result with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
Low haemoglobin can point to anaemia from lack of iron, vitamin B12 or folate, blood loss or thalassaemia. High haemoglobin can be seen with dehydration, smoking, lung disease or a bone marrow condition.
Who usually has this test
Women planning pregnancy, pregnant women, people with tiredness or breathlessness, and blood donors.
Risks and aftercare
A small bruise or a sore fingertip is possible for a day.
Names and options
Also called: Hb, hemoglobin, Hb test, anaemia test
Listed by the hospital as
- HAEMOGLOBIN (HB), EDTA BLOOD
Questions about this test
What is a normal haemoglobin level in pregnancy?
The WHO defines anaemia in pregnancy as a haemoglobin below 11 g/dL. Your lab report shows its own range. If your level is low, your doctor will look for the cause, often iron deficiency, and suggest treatment.
Can I raise my haemoglobin with diet?
Iron-rich foods such as green leafy vegetables, pulses, eggs and meat help, especially eaten with vitamin C. If you are anaemic, your doctor may also advise iron tablets.
Why is haemoglobin checked before IVF?
Anaemia can worsen in pregnancy and affect both you and the baby. Checking and treating it before treatment helps.
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.