Last Updated on January 17, 2025 by Analgesia team
Post Hb Medical Abbreviation
Post-hemoglobin (Hb) can refer to hemoglobin levels after a transfusion or after giving birth:
Post-transfusion hemoglobin
A medical professional may check a patient’s hemoglobin level 4–8 hours after a transfusion, or up to 24 hours later. This is done to evaluate the effectiveness of the transfusion, especially for patients at high risk of bleeding. Hemoglobin levels measured early after surgery may not be accurate due to bleeding and fluid resuscitation.
Postpartum hemoglobin
Hemoglobin levels can be measured after giving birth to assess for postpartum anemia. Hemoglobin levels below 11 grams per deciliter (g/dL) within 24–48 hours after delivery indicate postpartum anemia. Postpartum anemia can lead to fatigue, depression, and reduced cognition.
Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. It also gives blood its red color. A hemoglobin test can indicate if levels are too low or too high, but it can’t determine the cause. A healthcare provider will consider other test results when making a diagnosis