Folate (Serum)
Measures folic acid (vitamin B9) in your blood β essential for cell division, DNA synthesis and healthy red blood cells. Results usually in 1β2 business days.
Folate is a B vitamin your body needs to build DNA and produce healthy red blood cells. This serum test gives a quick read on your current folate level, useful when evaluating anemia, diet or pregnancy planning.
Included Tests
What This Panel Measures
Who Should Get This Panel
- You're evaluating fatigue or anemia
- You're pregnant or planning pregnancy
- You have a diet low in leafy greens or fortified foods
- You have a condition or medication affecting absorption
Conditions Screened
Related Symptoms
When to Get Tested
Test when evaluating anemia or fatigue, planning or during pregnancy, or when your diet or a medication could lower folate. For a longer-term view, RBC folate is the more stable option.
Understanding Your Results
Results post to your secure online account usually in 1β2 business days. Serum folate reflects recent intake, so a single value can vary with diet. Because folate and B12 deficiencies overlap, they're commonly interpreted together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Serum folate or RBC folate?
Do I need to fast?
Is this billed to insurance?
Pairs Well With β Same Blood Draw
Test centers donβt accept payment β you pay securely here; the lab just does the draw.
What happens after you order?
- 1Your lab order form & test code appear in your secure online account β with your test centerβs address.
- 2We send your lab requisition to the test center electronically.
- 3Walk in & get tested β tests usually take 5 minutes or less.