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Tests for essential nutrients and diet-related factors.
The Folate (Vitamin B9/Folic Acid) test measures the levels of this essential B vitamin in the blood, which plays a crucial role in red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis, and overall cellular function. This test helps identify deficiencies that can lead to anemia, neurological issues, or complications during pregnancy. Folate is vital for preventing birth defects and supporting metabolic processes, and deficiencies are common in certain diets or conditions affecting absorption. Early detection allows for dietary adjustments or supplementation to restore optimal levels and prevent long-term health issues.
Folate (Vitamin B9/Folic Acid)
Venous blood sample drawn
Not required (can be done at any time)
If you can’t find the test you’re looking for, simply give us a call and our support team will guide you to the right option. We’re here to ensure you get the correct test quickly and confidently.
A folate blood test measures the level of folate, also known as vitamin B9, in your blood. Folate helps your body make healthy red blood cells and is needed for normal cell growth. Your body cannot store large amounts, so it relies on a regular supply from food, fortified products or supplements.
This private folate blood test gives you a focused folate result that you can discuss with your GP or healthcare professional. It is a simple way to check your folate levels, whether you are looking into possible low folate, reviewing your diet or following advice from your GP.
This test measures one marker: Folate (Vitamin B9/Folic Acid), from a single venous blood sample.
It is a focused, single-marker folate test. It does not include vitamin B12, a full blood count or iron studies. If you would like those checked as well, see the comparison further down this page.
You may see folate tests described elsewhere as "serum folate" or "red cell folate". These names refer to different laboratory methods. This product is presented as a folate (vitamin B9) test, and your report will show the result alongside the laboratory's own reference range.
These three terms are often used as if they mean the same thing, which is why people search for a folate test, a folic acid blood test and a vitamin B9 blood test when they are looking for the same thing.
A folate blood test looks at your folate status, meaning the vitamin B9 available in your blood. It does not separately measure how much supplement folic acid you have taken.
As well as the symptoms listed above, you might consider a folate test if:
Folate and vitamin B12 work closely together to help your body make healthy red blood cells. A lack of either one can lead to a type of anaemia where red blood cells are larger than normal and do not work as well. Because the two can cause similar problems, they are often considered together.
NHS guidance explains that vitamin B12 levels should be checked before folic acid treatment is started. This is because folic acid can improve some symptoms while an underlying B12 deficiency goes unnoticed. If you are looking at your folate levels, it may also be worth checking vitamin B12 with Swift's Vitamin B12 Blood Test, or discussing both with your GP.
For balanced information, read the NHS guidance on vitamin B12 or folate deficiency anaemia.
Always follow the instructions provided with your booking. If you are unsure whether your appointment timing is suitable, contact the Swift Blood Tests team before your visit.
Your report will show your folate level alongside the laboratory's reference range. Ranges differ between laboratories, so always read your result against the range on your own report rather than figures found online.
Choose the test that matches what you want to check:
A focused folate (vitamin B9) measurement. The right choice if folate is the one result you want.
A separate B12-focused test, often looked at alongside folate because the two work closely together.
A wider panel including folate, active vitamin B12, a full blood count, iron studies, vitamin D and hs-CRP.
The best option depends on what you and your healthcare professional want to look at. You can also browse all Swift blood tests.
The current price of the Folate (Vitamin B9/Folic Acid) Blood Test is £45.00. You can choose from three collection options:
Looking for a folate blood test near me or a private folate blood test close to home? Use the clinic finder to see Swift Blood Tests locations, or choose a home visit if you live in Essex.
A folate blood test measures the level of folate, also called vitamin B9, in your blood. This Swift test measures one marker, Folate (Vitamin B9/Folic Acid), from a venous blood sample.
Not quite. Folate is the natural form of vitamin B9 found in food, while folic acid is the man-made form used in supplements and fortified foods. A folate blood test looks at your folate status rather than measuring supplement folic acid separately.
Yes. Folate is a form of vitamin B9. Folic acid is also a form of vitamin B9, which is why a folate test is sometimes called a vitamin B9 test or a folic acid test.
It shows your folate level compared with the laboratory's reference range. This can show whether your folate may be low, within range or higher than expected, and gives you a result to discuss with your GP or healthcare professional.
A folate blood test can show whether your folate level is low, which is an important part of checking for folate deficiency. It cannot show the cause on its own, so your result should be reviewed by a GP or healthcare professional alongside your symptoms and medical history.
Yes. Low folate can lead to a type of anaemia where red blood cells are larger than normal. This test measures folate only, so it cannot diagnose anaemia by itself.
Vitamin B12 and folate are different B vitamins that work closely together to help make healthy red blood cells. A lack of either can cause a similar type of anaemia. This test measures folate only. Vitamin B12 is checked with a separate test.
No. Fasting is not required for this test. If you book other tests at the same appointment, follow the preparation instructions for those tests.
Yes. Folic acid supplements, multivitamins and fortified foods can affect a folate result. Follow the instructions provided with your booking, tell the Swift Blood Tests team what you take, and do not stop or change any medicine or supplement without advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
The current price of the Folate (Vitamin B9/Folic Acid) Blood Test is £45.00. Select your visit type at the top of this page and check your basket total before you pay.
You can book a clinic visit through the Swift Blood Tests clinic finder, choose a home visit if you live in Essex, or order a venous collection kit. Use the Find Your Nearest Clinic page to see locations.
They are often considered together because they work closely and a lack of either can cause similar problems. NHS guidance says vitamin B12 levels should be checked before folic acid treatment is started. Swift offers a separate Vitamin B12 Blood Test, and the Advanced Iron Blood Test includes both folate and active vitamin B12.
£45.00 with Clinic Visit, Home Visit (Essex only) or Kit Only. Choose your visit type at the top of this page to get started.
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