h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Why isn't there a painless way for a blood test and why do you have to give so much? My wife is absolutely petrified of needles and as she's pregnant they're insisting on her giving blood which just makes her worse! Why do you need about half a pint just to tell a blood group? Can't you tell from a finger prick test? Does anyone know a painless way?

The answer is that they don't need that to determine a blood group, they actually do a whole array of tests. I am a blood donor, until recently we used to get a local anaesthetic rubbed on the skin you couldn't feel the needle going in. I suggest that your wife insists that they numb the skin before going for the vein. It also helps to have someone who knows what they are doing. I find the whole experience unpleasant and I cope simply by looking away and keeping my eyes shut. On the bright side it is actually good for you to lose a bit of blood....a bit like an oil change I guess.

When I was in hospital last, this evil man came up to me while I was still dozy from the anasethetic and of course he took advantage of me.
No one was there to protect my best interests...he pricked me constantly until I passed out...my thumb was still bruised 2 weeks later...I am not exaggerating...

I must agree with the looking away business. It might also help to lie down. I've given a pint of blood plenty of times during blood drives and never had any problems. Then one time I had to give some blood--way less than a pint--with the difference being that I was sitting and I was looking at it. For whatever reason, I found that I almost passed out. I also agree with having an experienced nurse do the needlework. With an experienced nurse, you hardly feel the needle at all. Anyway, best of luck with future blood tests, and good luck with the baby. ~Wayne