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    For over 10 years, teens have been asking us questions on every topic imaginable. While we are no longer taking new questions, we have a wealth of information we would like to share with teenagers.

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    Navigate: FAQ Home Page > General Health Questions > Can I get a blood test if I'm under 18?
    Posted on: 05/04/2004

    Question

    Can i get a blood test if im not 18? cuase i would just like to know what is in my blood, what blood type i am and if i have anything to worry about if i were to have sex?

    Submitted on 03/31/04 at 03:17:15


    Answer

    There are no routine blood tests for healthy young people. Talk with your doctor about your specific concerns. If your family has members with potentially hereditary disease (eg. diabetes, heart attack before age 65, or other conditions) then your doctor might decide that screening your blood is appropriate.

    There is no reason to check for your blood type; it has no bearing on your general health, and despite recent books to the contrary, also has no bearing on what type of diet is best for you. If you ever needed blood, your blood type would be checked before giving you a transfusion. When you are 18, you can donate blood and you'll be told your blood type then. Blood donation is a great community service to consider.

    Blood tests for folks who are sexually active can test for infection, such as hepatitis, HIV, and syphilis. If you are not sexually active there are no tests to have regarding sex itsef. Other tests for sexually transmitted infections are done through a urine sample or from the genitals directly.


    Answered By:
    Meg Durbin , M.D.


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