How can I find out or confirm my blood type?

You cannot know your blood type by guessing; it must be determined through a specific blood test called "blood typing" or "ABO/Rh testing." This test identifies the antigens (A, B, Rh) on your red blood cells.

Here are the most common ways to find out your blood type:

• 1. Donate Blood: This is one of the easiest and most common ways. Blood donation centers (like the American Red Cross or local blood banks) will type your blood for free as part of the donation process and send you a donor card with your blood type.
• 2. Ask Your Doctor: Your primary care physician can order a simple lab test to determine your blood type. If you've had blood work done in the past, your type might already be in your medical records.
• 3. Check Previous Medical Records: If you have ever been pregnant or had surgery, your blood type was almost certainly tested. You can request these records from your doctor or the hospital.
• 4. At-Home Blood Typing Kits: You can purchase a kit from a pharmacy or online. These kits typically require you to prick your finger and mix your blood with different antibody solutions (sera) to see how it reacts (clumps). While generally accurate, it's best to have the result confirmed by a medical lab.

The most reliable methods are asking your doctor or donating blood.