Jane* had been managing multiple health conditions for years — hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s disease, chronic low iron and vitamin D. All of them requiring regular blood tests. All of them going unmonitored, because Jane couldn’t get through a needle procedure.
Her response to needles wasn’t mild discomfort. It was full-body — fainting, nausea, sweating, crying, physically trying to get away. She’d missed her final two rounds of high school immunisations. Never had a flu shot. Travelled internationally without recommended vaccines. And after a traumatic hospital experience in 2019 — where a nurse dismissed her phobia and she passed out — she hadn’t been able to face a blood test since.
She’d tried everything. Two psychologists and CBT. Valium — multiple times, with no effect. EMLA cream. Ice. Breathing techniques. Meditation. Lying down. Having loved ones present. Gradual exposure. None of it was enough.
What changed
In October 2021, Jane attended her regular GP clinic for a vaccination. The appointment was scheduled for late afternoon. A family member came as support. The nurse administering the vaccine was experienced in both NeedleCalm and needle phobia management.
NeedleCalm was applied before the procedure. Erica reported feeling no pain.
She had spent the day preparing — meditation, hydrotherapy, rest. But this time, the procedure itself was different.
What came next
Since that appointment, Jane has attended further blood tests and vaccinations — all using NeedleCalm. She is now confident speaking openly about her experiences, and provides guidance and support to other patients navigating needle phobia.
For someone who once couldn’t get through a routine blood test, that is not a small thing.
Names and identifying details have been changed to protect patient privacy.
