What is the normal reference range for adult female hemoglobin (Hgb)?

What is the normal reference range for adult female hemoglobin (Hgb)?

• A. 12.1–15.1 g/dL
• B. 11.0–14.0 g/dL
• C. 13.0–16.0 g/dL
• D. 10.5–13.5 g/dL

Answer: (A)

Hemoglobin in adult females is normally around 12–16 g/dL, with many references citing about 12–15 g/dL. This lower range compared with males reflects factors like menstruation and lower androgen levels. The range given (12.1–15.1 g/dL) fits firmly within that typical female reference window, making it the best match among the options. The other ranges are less representative for adult women: 11.0–14.0 g/dL is toward the lower end and could include values considered low in many labs; 13.0–16.0 g/dL is more common for males or a general adult reference; 10.5–13.5 g/dL is below the normal female range.

Hemoglobin in adult females is normally around 12–16 g/dL, with many references citing about 12–15 g/dL. This lower range compared with males reflects factors like menstruation and lower androgen levels. The range given (12.1–15.1 g/dL) fits firmly within that typical female reference window, making it the best match among the options. The other ranges are less representative for adult women: 11.0–14.0 g/dL is toward the lower end and could include values considered low in many labs; 13.0–16.0 g/dL is more common for males or a general adult reference; 10.5–13.5 g/dL is below the normal female range.