Hi blackford, Ask your practice nurse (or Doctor) for a prescription for EMLA cream. You put in on your arm (where the vein is - from where they will be taking the blood from). You do this AT LEAST an hour before you go for your blood test. This totally numbs the area where the needle goes in and you will NOT feel it. This cream is FANTASTIC, it really works, and future blood tests shouldn't be a problem for you.