Haemoglobin normal range for men, women and children
Medically reviewed by Dr. N. S. Santosh Varma, MBBS, FIM, FIDM, FICCM · Reg. APMC/FMR 112686 · Updated the day of publishing
Haemoglobin carries oxygen in red blood cells. Commonly used normal ranges are about 13–17 g/dL for adult men and 12–15 g/dL for adult women. The WHO defines anaemia as haemoglobin below 13 g/dL in men, below 12 g/dL in non-pregnant women and below 11 g/dL in pregnant women. Anaemia is common in India and is checked with a simple CBC.
Normal ranges and anaemia cut-offs
| Group | Commonly used normal range | Anaemia (WHO) below |
|---|---|---|
| Adult men | 13–17 g/dL | 13 g/dL |
| Adult women | 12–15 g/dL | 12 g/dL |
| Pregnant women | 11 g/dL and above | 11 g/dL |
| Children 5–11 years | 11.5 g/dL and above | 11.5 g/dL |
Reference ranges differ slightly between labs, by age and by sex; always read the range printed on your own report and ask a doctor to interpret it.
Signs of low haemoglobin
- Tiredness and weakness
- Breathlessness on effort
- Pale skin, inner eyelids or nails
- Dizziness or headaches
- Cold hands and feet
Common causes
- Low iron intake or absorption
- Low vitamin B12 or folate
- Heavy periods or other blood loss
- Pregnancy
- Long-term illness or kidney disease
The cause decides the treatment, so do not start iron tablets without a doctor's advice.
Is it included in YIRA's checkup?
Yes. Haemoglobin, within the 29-value CBC, is part of the 70-test checkup in every YIRA Family Health Plan, with home sample collection and a doctor consultation to go through your report.
A YIRA Family Health Plan includes a 70-test full body checkup at home for one registered member, a doctor consultation for the family, a review of an elder's past reports, and dental and eye check-ups. Essential ₹999 a year (up to 4 family members registered); Complete ₹1,299 a year (up to 8, with ₹5 lakh accident cover for the buyer).
70-test checkup at home plus family care, from ₹999 a year
Essential ₹999 (one 70-test checkup, up to 4 family members registered) · Complete ₹1,299 (up to 8, with ₹5 lakh accident cover). Doctor consultation, dental and eye check-ups included. Pay after sample collection.
Frequently asked questions
What haemoglobin level is dangerous?
Very low levels, often below 7–8 g/dL, need urgent medical attention, especially with breathlessness or chest pain.
Can haemoglobin be too high?
Yes. High values can occur with dehydration, smoking, living at altitude or some blood disorders. A doctor should review it.
How can I increase haemoglobin?
It depends on the cause. Iron-rich foods help with mild iron deficiency, but a doctor should confirm the cause first.
Related
Medically reviewed by Dr. N. S. Santosh Varma (MBBS, FIM, FIDM, FICCM; APMC/FMR 112686). Prepared by the YIRA health team · Last updated 1 October 2026. This page is general health information, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Reference ranges differ between labs; always discuss your results with a doctor. In an emergency, call 108 or go to the nearest hospital.