Folate Test in Cambridge
This test is currently out of stock at our Cambridge clinics. You can still learn about the test and check availability at other locations.
Folate
The Folate test measures the level of folate (vitamin B9) in your blood, an essential nutrient for DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and cell division. Folate is particularly important during pregnancy, where deficiency can cause neural tube defects in the developing baby. Your body cannot produce folate on its own, so it must come from diet or supplementation.
Who Should Get Tested?
You should consider a folate test if you experience persistent fatigue, weakness, or breathlessness, a sore or red tongue, mouth ulcers, numbness or tingling, or mood changes including irritability and depression. Women planning pregnancy or in early pregnancy should test to ensure adequate levels for fetal development. Those with digestive conditions that impair absorption (such as coeliac disease or Crohn's disease), heavy alcohol intake, or diets low in green vegetables and fortified foods are at higher risk of deficiency.
Understanding Your Results
| Folate Level | Status |
|---|---|
| Below 3 ng/mL | Deficient supplementation recommended. Risk of megaloblastic anaemia and, in pregnancy, neural tube defects. |
| 3 to 20 ng/mL | Normal healthy folate levels. Maintain through a balanced diet rich in leafy greens and fortified foods. |
| Above 20 ng/mL | High usually not harmful, but very high levels from supplements can mask a B12 deficiency. Discuss with your clinic team. |
Folate and Vitamin B12 work closely together, so your clinic team may recommend testing both to get a complete picture of your nutritional status.
Clinics offering this test
These clinics currently have Folate in stock. Choose a clinic to check appointment availability.
Melvin Pharmacy Ltd
24 Brollagh Road, Knocknaraven, Enniskillen, Northern Ireland, BT93 4AE
Holm Pharm Ltd - Bridge of Allan
3 Fountain Road, Bridge of Allan, Scotland, FK9 4EX