To ask if anyone has had a private blood test and collected their own sample

[Generallyok]

Sorry posting here for advice please. Backwards and forwards to GP had some blood tests done but drawn a blank so far. I would like to test for b12 as it rubs in my family but dr has me labeled as stressed and not ill. He might be right but I would still like to get my levels checked. Looked at medicheck who would supply me with collection tube and you lance own finger. Wondering how easy this is? It works out at £39 but don't want to waste money if it will prove to tricky to do.

Its very very easy

Even needle phobic ds1 managed though he is refusing to ever do it again

Which bit are you worried about

The needle or the collecting

If its the needle its just like pricking your finger when sewing, you cant see the needle and they give you spare lances

If its collecting its a very very small tube and you just squeeze your finger til its full

I've done it several times and it's fine, just a finger prick.

Brilliant thank you. I’m not that squeamish just wondering if it it easy to get enough blood out. I think I will order one. Thanks so much

I’ve done it and was fine. If you warm your hands up and follow the instructions it’s pretty straightforward. Lancets are easy enough-I used 2 though as I didn’t press firmly enough the first time.

It's dead easy, I did it for Progesterone tests when TTC

Stab your little finger with the lancet and kind of 'milk' the blood into the tube. Your finger might feel a bit bruised for a day or two depending on how easily you bleed

I did it but used my big toe because I struggled with my finger. Big toe bled much more easily.

I only learned the tip about lancing the side of the finger instead of the pad later on after struggling to get enough into the tube! Worked like a dream after that

Me again. I was feeling pleased as collected sample and sent it off but unfortunately contacted by medicheck to say sample not good enough. Gutted as I didn't find very easy. Had to really squeeze finger to get blood in tube and used 3 fingers for 2 tubes. Any tips as they are going To send me another kit. Could cry as feel like an idiot. I have 3 bruised finger tips too.

Put a glove on that hand first, should dilate the capillaries and make it slightly easier

It hurts less if you go slightly to the side of the finger rather than smack in the middle of the finger tip.