Iron Deficiency Test Singapore

iron deficiency tests

Tired all the time? Breathless with minimal activity? You could be low in iron.

Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies globally — and a leading cause of anemia, especially among women. 

At Regis Medical, we offer comprehensive iron deficiency blood tests to help you detect, confirm, and manage iron deficiency before it impacts your daily life.

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What Is a Iron Deficiency Test?

An iron deficiency test is a blood test that helps determine whether your body has adequate iron levels to support healthy red blood cell production and oxygen transport.

It’s not just one single test — it usually involves a panel of related markers to give a complete picture of your iron status. These may include:

Ferritin – indicates how much iron is stored in your body

TIBC & Transferrin Saturation – shows how well your body transports and binds iron

Hemoglobin & Red Blood Cell Indices – assess whether you have or are developing anemia

Together, these results help our doctor identify whether your symptoms are due to low iron, confirm the stage of deficiency, and rule out other causes of anemia.

Simple and fast blood tests — but one that can have a big impact on your energy and long-term health.

What Is Iron and Why Does It Matter?

Iron plays a vital role in carrying oxygen throughout your body. When levels drop, your muscles and organs don’t get the oxygen they need, leading to fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, and poor focus.

If left untreated, iron deficiency can progress to iron-deficiency anemia, which may affect your immunity, exercise tolerance, menstrual health, and even fertility.

Symptoms of Iron Deficiency

Iron deficiency can be subtle at first, but symptoms may worsen over time if left unaddressed. You may experience:

  • Persistent fatigue or weakness
  • Pale skin or cold hands and feet
  • Shortness of breath, especially during exercise
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Headaches
  • Brittle nails or hair thinning
  • Fast or irregular heartbeat
  • Restless legs syndrome
  • Poor concentration or brain fog

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms — especially if you're female, vegetarian/vegan, or have heavy periods — an iron test is a quick way to check your levels and take action early.

What Causes Iron Deficiency?

Iron deficiency may arise from:

  • Inadequate intake (low iron diet, vegetarianism)
  • Increased needs (pregnancy, adolescence, growth)
  • Blood loss (heavy periods, ulcers, internal bleeding)
  • Poor absorption (gastric surgery, celiac disease, chronic gut inflammation)
  • Identifying the root cause is essential for proper treatment and long-term prevention.

Who Should Consider a Iron Deficiency Test

You may benefit from a test if you:

  • Feel constantly tired, weak, or dizzy
  • Experience shortness of breath or heart palpitations
  • Have heavy or prolonged menstruation
  • Are pregnant or planning pregnancy
  • Are vegetarian or have a restrictive diet
  • Have chronic conditions like gastritis, ulcers, or inflammatory bowel disease
  • Regularly donate blood
  • Notice pale skin, brittle nails, or hair thinning

Iron Deficiency Tests


Test

Price

Iron Deficiency Profile

$65

Vitamin and Mineral Deficiency Panel Test (Vitamin D, B12, Folate, Iron, Magnesium)

$150

Full Blood Count (FBC) and Peripheral Blood Film (PBF)

$25

Thalassaemia Profile (Full Blood Count, Peripheral Blood Film, Haemoglobin Electrophoresis, Ferritin)

$175

*Turnaround time 3-7 working days

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*Prices listed were last updated on 1 July 2023. Prices may be subject to change. 

*Price does not include consultation fee and GST.

Don’t ignore the signs of iron deficiency. 

Whether you’re constantly fatigued, planning for pregnancy, or just want clarity — our iron blood test gives you answers fast.

Finding Us

Holland Village

255 Holland Ave, Singapore 278983

Near MRT Exit B

CC21
2 min walk

Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri:

8.30am - 2.30pm

5.30pm - 10.00pm  

Wed:

8.30am - 2.30pm  

Sat:
9.00am - 3.00pm

Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays. For the latest updates on our clinic’s opening hours, please check our Google Maps.

** GP registration ends 15 mins before the closing time above, while Physiotherapy & Acupuncture end registration 45 mins before. Please book an appointment in advance to avoid queues and disappointment.

WhatsApp Us Call Us (8118 5298) Get Directions Read more

Katong

437 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427650

Near Marine Parade MRT

TE26
Shopfront Parking

Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri:

8.30am - 2.30pm

5.30pm - 10.00pm  

Wed:

8.30am - 2.30pm  

Sat:
9.00am - 3.00pm

Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays. For the latest updates on our clinic’s opening hours, please check our Google Maps.

** GP registration ends 15 mins before the closing time above, while Physiotherapy & Acupuncture end registration 45 mins before. Please book an appointment in advance to avoid queues and disappointment.

WhatsApp Us Call Us (9851 3728) Get Directions Read more

FAQ

Accessibility & Support

What is Regis Medical GP clinic’s locations and opening hours?

Regis Medical Holland Village is located at 255 Holland Avenue, Singapore 278983

Regis Medical Katong is located at 437 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427650

Click here to view our opening hours

Appointment

Can I just walk in for an Iron Defiency test? 
Yes, you can. However, to avoid long waiting time, we strongly advise you to book your appointments in advance.
How do I book an appointment?   

To book an appointment at Regis Medical Holland Village, please call or whatsapp us 8118 5298

To book an appointment at Regis Medical Katong, please call or whatsapp us 9851 3728

What are Regis Medical’s cancellation and refund policy?  

You can only cancel or change your appointments up to 24 hours before your appointment. You will receive your refund within 3 working days. No refund will be issued for no shows and cancellations within 24 hours before your appointment. However, if you are feeling unwell on the day of the appointment, we allow patients who have their acute illness seen at Regis Medical to reschedule their appointment without extra cost.

This policy is subject to change.

Can I reschedule my appointment?  

Yes. You can reschedule your appointments. However, you need to reschedule your appointment at least 24 hours before your actual appointment time. If you are unwell on the day of the appointment, we will reschedule your appointment at no extra cost if you seek medical attention at our clinic (for non-emergencies only).

What happens if I miss my appointment?  
No refund will be issued for missed appointments.

Finance

What are the modes of payment accepted at Regis Medical?    
We accept Visa/Mastercard/Amex, PayNow, JCB, UnionPay and ApplePay.
Are these tests covered by insurance?
It depends on your insurance plan and whether testing is deemed medically necessary. We can provide detailed invoices for claims.

General

What are the symptoms of iron deficiency?
You may experience:
  • Fatigue and low energy
  • Pale skin
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dizziness or light-headedness
  • Brittle nails or hair loss
  • Restless legs
  • Poor concentration or “brain fog”
Mild deficiency may not cause symptoms at all.
What is an iron deficiency test?
It’s a blood test panel that assesses your iron status. It usually includes:
  • Serum iron (iron levels in the blood)
  • Ferritin (your iron storage level — most reliable marker)
  • Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)
  • Transferrin saturation
Sometimes, a Full Blood Count (FBC) is done alongside to check for anaemia.

Persistent tiredness or fatigue

Hair loss or brittle nails

Pale skin

Mouth ulcers, swollen tongue

Frequent infections

Numbness or tingling

Mood changes or irritability

Do I need to fast before the test?
Fasting is not required. Unless you are doing other tests together that may require fasting.
How is the test done?
A small amount of blood is drawn from a vein in your arm. It’s quick, usually takes just a few minutes, and you can resume normal activities right after.
What does it mean if my ferritin is low?
Low ferritin usually indicates depleted iron stores, even if your red blood cell count is still normal. It’s often the first sign of iron deficiency before full-blown anaemia develops.
What happens if I’m diagnosed with iron deficiency?
Our doctor may:
  • Recommend dietary changes (iron-rich foods like red meat, leafy greens, lentils)
  • Prescribe iron supplements
  • Investigate the underlying cause, especially if deficiency is significant or recurring
  • Repeat the test after a few months to track improvement
What if my results are borderline or normal but I still feel tired?
Iron deficiency exists on a spectrum. Some people may feel symptoms even with “low-normal” ferritin. Our doctor will consider your symptoms, medical history, and lab values together when advising treatment.
Can I take iron supplements before testing?
It’s best to avoid iron supplements for at least 24–48 hours before testing unless instructed otherwise, as they can temporarily raise serum iron and skew results.
Can I prevent iron deficiency?
Yes. Tips include:
  • Eating iron-rich foods (meat, eggs, beans, fortified cereals)
  • Taking vitamin C with meals to boost absorption
  • Avoiding excessive tea or coffee with meals, as they can block iron absorption
  • Regular screening if you have risk factors (heavy periods, pregnancy, digestive issues)
Is iron deficiency the same as anaemia?
Not exactly. Iron deficiency is the most common cause of anaemia, but anaemia can also be due to other causes like vitamin B12 or folate deficiency, chronic disease, or blood loss. That’s why a full evaluation is important.
Can iron levels be too high?
Yes. Too much iron can be harmful and lead to a condition called haemochromatosis. You should only take iron supplements under medical supervision and not for general energy boosting unless you’re diagnosed with low iron.