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Folate Folic Acid Blood Test

Feb 16, 2026

Folate Folic Acid Blood Test

A folate blood test measures your vitamin B9 level—essential for red blood cell production, DNA synthesis, and preventing neural tube defects in pregnancy, with deficiency causing megaloblastic anaemia, fatigue, and (in pregnancy) serious birth defects like spina bifida. Testing is particularly important for women planning pregnancy and anyone with anaemia symptoms.

At Blood Test London, folate testing costs from £245 with results in 2-3 days.

Check Your Folate Levels

Normal Folate Levels

Level

Interpretation

Below 7 nmol/L

Deficient

7-20 nmol/L

Low normal

20-45 nmol/L

Normal

Above 45 nmol/L

High (usually from supplements)

For pregnancy: Levels should be optimised BEFORE conception.

Why Folate Matters

General Health

  • Red blood cell production

  • DNA synthesis and repair

  • Cell division

  • Homocysteine metabolism (cardiovascular health)

Pregnancy

  • Prevents neural tube defects (spina bifida, anencephaly)

  • Reduces miscarriage risk

  • Supports placental development

  • Critical in first 12 weeks (often before pregnancy known)

Symptoms of Deficiency

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Pale skin

  • Shortness of breath

  • Mouth sores

  • Tongue swelling

  • Grey hair

  • Poor concentration

  • Depression

  • Irritability

Who Should Test?

  • Women planning pregnancy

  • Pregnant women

  • Symptoms of anaemia

  • Vegetarians/vegans

  • Alcohol excess

  • Digestive disorders (coeliac, Crohn's)

  • Taking certain medications (methotrexate, anti-epileptics)

  • Elderly

Folate-Rich Foods

Food

Folate (μg per serving)

Liver (85g)

215

Spinach (1 cup cooked)

263

Black-eyed peas (1 cup)

210

Asparagus (4 spears)

89

Brussels sprouts (1 cup)

94

Fortified cereals

Varies (100-400)

Daily requirement: 200μg (400μg if planning pregnancy)

Supplementation

  • Planning pregnancy: 400μg folic acid daily (start 3 months before)

  • Pregnancy: Continue through first 12 weeks minimum

  • Deficiency: Higher doses as prescribed

  • MTHFR gene variants: May need methylfolate instead

Book Your Folate Test

Price: From £245
Results: 2-3 days
Doctor review: A doctor always reviews every result
Fasting required: No

Book via WhatsApp

Phone: 020 3951 3429

Blood Test London by The Wellness. Folate testing from £245, results in 2-3 days.