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Abogroupbldnb

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A blood test to determine your baby's ABO blood type (A, B, AB, or O) using a sample from the newborn.

Quick summary

{"Identifies your baby's blood type as A, B, AB, or O","Helps prepare for safe blood transfusions if needed","Screens for potential blood type incompatibility between mother and baby","A simple blood test performed shortly after birth","Results are important for future medical care"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14580-5
Short code
ABO Group Bld NB
Synonyms
ABO Group Bld NB
Category
chemistry
Sample
whole-blood
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
3 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The ABO blood type test is a routine laboratory test performed on newborns to determine their blood group (A, B, AB, or O). This test analyzes the antigens present on the surface of red blood cells. Every person inherits their blood type from their parents, and the ABO system is the most clinically important blood group system for transfusion safety and pregnancy management.

How is the test performed?

A small blood sample is taken from your baby's heel (heel stick) or sometimes from the umbilical cord immediately after birth. The blood sample is then sent to the laboratory where it is tested against special reagents to determine the ABO group. This test is typically part of the standard newborn screening panel.

Why is it important for my newborn?

Knowing your baby's blood type is essential for several reasons: it ensures safe blood transfusion compatibility if needed, helps healthcare providers monitor for ABO incompatibility between mother and baby (which can cause jaundice or anemia), and provides important information for future medical care throughout your child's life.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is this test painful for my baby?
The test involves a small heel stick or cord blood sample, which may cause brief discomfort. Healthcare providers use gentle techniques to minimize your baby's distress.
When will I get the results?
Results are typically available within a few hours to one day. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you during your hospital stay or at the first pediatric visit.
Does this test tell me the Rh factor?
No, this specific test determines only the ABO blood type (A, B, AB, or O). The Rh factor (positive or negative) is a separate test that is also commonly performed on newborns.
What if my baby's blood type is different from mine?
This is normal and expected. A baby inherits blood type genes from both parents and may have a different blood type than either parent. Your healthcare team will monitor for any related concerns.
Will my baby need treatment based on the results?
Most newborns with any blood type are healthy and require no treatment. In rare cases of significant ABO incompatibility, additional monitoring or treatment for jaundice may be needed.
  1. 1
    American Red Cross - Blood TypesSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Newborn Screening TestsSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy