Blood Group (ABO+Rh)

The Blood Group test determines your blood type based on certain markers, called antigens, on the surface of your red blood cells. It identifies both your ABO type (A, B, AB, or O) and your Rh factor (positive or negative), giving your complete blood group, for example O positive or AB negative.

The ABO system

The ABO system classifies blood into four main types, based on the antigens on your red blood cells and the antibodies naturally present in your plasma:

• Type A: A antigens on the cells, anti-B antibodies in the plasma
• Type B: B antigens on the cells, anti-A antibodies in the plasma
• Type AB: both A and B antigens, with neither antibody (the universal recipient)
• Type O: neither antigen, with both anti-A and anti-B antibodies (the universal donor)

The Rh system

The Rh system classifies blood by the presence or absence of a further antigen called the Rhesus D factor (RhD):

• Rh-positive: the RhD antigen is present
• Rh-negative: the RhD antigen is absent

Why it matters

Knowing your blood group is valuable for:

• Blood transfusions: matching a compatible blood type is essential, as incompatible blood can cause a serious reaction.
• Pregnancy: an Rh-negative mother carrying an Rh-positive baby may need anti-D injections to prevent a reaction that could affect the pregnancy or future pregnancies.
• Organ and tissue matching: compatible blood typing helps reduce the risk of rejection in transplants.
• Knowing your details: having your blood group on record is useful in medical emergencies and for donating blood.

• ABO
• Rh (D antigen)

No special preparation required.

For blood tests, we recommend drinking plenty of water beforehand to ensure smooth sample collection. If you are taking any regular medication, continue to do so unless advised otherwise by your doctor.