Iron Studies
Ferritin, Iron, Transferrin and TIBC — the full pathology iron panel. The standard workup for fatigue, heavy periods and unexplained low energy.
One-time payment of A$75. GST included. No subscription.
What this panel measures
- Ferritin: Your iron stores. The single most useful marker — moves before haemoglobin drops.
- Iron: Iron currently circulating in your blood; bounces around with food and time of day.
- Transferrin: The protein that transports iron through your bloodstream.
- Transferrin Saturation: The percentage of transferrin currently loaded with iron.
- TIBC: Total iron-binding capacity; rises when iron stores are low.
Who this panel is for
Have you noticed any of these:
- tired despite enough sleep
- shortness of breath on stairs or in training
- heavy or long periods
- vegetarian, vegan or training intensely without iron-rich meals
- post-pregnancy or after surgery
- restless legs or hair thinning
How it works
- Order online, no GP referral needed.
- Visit any of 2,000+ accredited collection centres across Australia.
- Results delivered same day to your personal dashboard with clear explanations.
Sample and turnaround
Single blood draw, fasted (no food for 8 hours, water OK). Stop iron supplements 24–48 hours before testing if your doctor agrees. Results back same day.
Frequently asked questions
Why ferritin instead of just iron?
Iron in your blood bounces with food and time of day. Ferritin reflects long-term iron stores — a steadier signal that catches deficiency earliest.
What does low ferritin mean?
Low ferritin signals depleted iron stores — often before you become anaemic. Many clinicians treat low ferritin earlier than the absolute lab cutoff when symptoms are present. Discuss with your doctor before supplementing.
Can I have high iron?
Yes — high iron and ferritin can signal iron overload (haemochromatosis) or inflammation. Context matters; discuss with your doctor.
What's the difference between this and the Iron & Energy Panel?
Iron Studies covers the four iron-specific markers. The Iron & Energy Panel adds a Full Blood Count for a fuller energy picture.
Keep reading
Guides
- Blood test without a GP referral — Yes — most common blood tests can be self-ordered in Australia. How direct-to-consumer pathology works, what's available, and when you should still see a GP first.
- Private blood test cost — Private blood tests in Australia range from $35 for single biomarkers up to $500+ for comprehensive panels. What you're paying for, what drives the cost, and when private testing is worth it.
Biomarkers explained
- Ferritin — Ferritin is the gold-standard marker for your iron stores — more reliable than measuring iron in your blood directly.
- Vitamin B12 — B12 is essential for nerve function and red blood cell production — and it's commonly low in vegetarians, vegans, and adults over 50.