Any needle-phobes out there?

10-4LilBuddy · December 2011

While I seem to be a pin cushion for all these tests, my DH is extremely needle phobic. He finally agreed to do the blood test required for IUI and fainted while at the test center. They wouldn't draw blood while he was out, which royally ticked me off. I had them take a sample from me before him so I could make sure he got a skilled person (such a connoisseur!).

Any hints on what worked? I may introduce valium next time. Thanks in advance!

slouise12 · December 2011

I always request the smallest needle (butterfly needle is what my nurse called it once) and I've never had anyone give me problems about it. One nurse did make a comment about how it takes longer to get the blood but for me it's just the initial sticking that freaks me out. Also, when they are only taking 1-2 vials at a time it still only takes like 30 seconds. Other than that I don't look at the needle at all, and I am very honest with whoever is drawing it an the are usually very comforting and remind me to breathe lol

jls0706d1 · December 2011

Raises hand!

I dread it too. I usually have to be poked multiple times and have fainted before. Couple of things I do.. I always make sure they lie me down, I have them use a butterfly needle as well and try to keep myself warm (when you get nervous and cold it makes it very hard to get blood)- some people/places will use hot compresses to make the veins very visible and easier to access. I always bring juice or something with some sugar in it to help from passing out and drink it immediately after they are done before getting up. The last couple of times I have brought my phone that has music on it and they let me listen to that which helped a ton to focus on something else. Once I found someone who was good, I got her name and what days of the week she works. I try to only go on the days I know she will be there and she is very aware of how nervous it makes me which helps.

vpine · December 2011

I'm the same way, I actually tell the nurse in advance that I get dizzy so they let me lay down during bloodwork, I let them take blood from my left arm so I can turn my head around and stare at wall during it.

Temp878586125009588 · December 2011

MH is that same way, they usually have him lay down, and he usually has to fast , (he gets his blood drawn every 6 months b/c of high cholesterol) so as long as he has chocolate right after he'll be ok, MH has such a phobia of medical tests in general. He passes out when he gets his eyes checked too....

LyssRob · December 2011

I get very queasy/light-headed and as others have said lying down and not looking at the needle have helped me a lot.

tombomb84 · December 2011

I have a hard time with needles. I listen to music or bring my tablet and watch a show on hulu. For me not looking and distractions are the most helpful.

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