Sickling test
Quick answer: A sickling test checks whether your red blood cells change into a sickle shape, a sign of sickle haemoglobin. It is a screening test for sickle cell disease or trait, with haemoglobin electrophoresis or HPLC used to confirm.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed; tell staff if you have had a recent blood transfusion.
- In fertility careIf both partners carry sickle cell trait, a baby could have sickle cell disease, so testing before or early in pregnancy helps with planning.
How the test is done
- 1Blood is drawn from a vein or finger
- 2A drop is mixed with a chemical that removes oxygen
- 3The slide is sealed and left for a while
- 4The lab checks for sickle-shaped red cells under a microscope
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive screen does not tell trait from disease, so a confirmatory test is needed; discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result can point to sickle cell trait or sickle cell disease, which electrophoresis or HPLC can tell apart. A negative result means sickle haemoglobin was not seen.
Who usually has this test
People from communities where sickle cell is common, couples planning pregnancy, and people with unexplained anaemia or pain episodes.
Risks and aftercare
Bruising is possible; if positive, testing your partner may be advised before pregnancy.
Names and options
Also called: sickle cell test, sickle cell screening, sickling slide test
Listed by the hospital as
- SICKLING TEST, BLOOD
Questions about this test
Does a positive sickling test mean I have sickle cell disease?
Not necessarily, as people with sickle cell trait also test positive. Haemoglobin electrophoresis or HPLC tells trait and disease apart.
Is sickle cell common in India?
It is common in some tribal and other communities in central, western and southern India. Screening is widely advised in these groups.
Why test for sickle cell before pregnancy?
If both partners carry sickle cell trait, each pregnancy has a one in four chance of sickle cell disease. Testing helps you plan your options.
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.