I’m desperate for help to get over my phobia of needles – I refuse to have blood tests

DEAR DEIDRE: EVER since I had to have surgery on a broken arm as a child, I’ve had a phobia of needles. I’m 33 now.

When I was coming round from the anaesthetic, I had a needle in the back of my hand.

I could see how long it was under my skin.

I was freaked out but a nurse said that I would have to wait for the doctor to have it removed.

I watched it coming out and my phobia began.

I can’t even look at needles on the TV and refuse to have any blood tests or injections.

This fear has steadily worsened over the years and I constantly worry that if I end up in hospital I won’t be able to cope with any injections.

I would love to be able to freeze my eggs to become a mum one day, but I feel like my chances are slim because of this fear.

I am desperate for help but nobody seems to be able to give me any advice on how to get over this.

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DEIDRE SAYS: Needle phobias are fairly common, and there are things that can assist you.

Hypnotherapy can help people to overcome their phobias.

If you ever need an injection or a blood test, ask them to prescribe some Emla cream which numbs your arm, so you won’t feel the jab.

Listening to music on headphones will help to distract you too.

My support pack Fears And Phobias explains more.