Hi Lynne. Donating blood for the first time can be traumatic. I imagine you were cared for after (tea and a biscuit) I believe. However if nothing was actually said regarding after care etc, and no-one inquired as to how you felt, the isolation would've made you feel worse. I personally have never donated due to diabetes, and meds. However, I have heard some people do react from the needle and not having someone there as support for after. Maybe have a talk with your G.P, get some advice about whether it's worth repeating. I understand your motives behind it and salute you, however, sometimes it's better to have someone with you for the emotional support. Needles don't affect me, diabetes/needles, par for my life. I had an occasion to have a blood test soon after I was diagnosed. I have HBAC tests done every 6 months. A young lass was waiting to have a test done and she was ultra nervous. She paced the floor and became extremely agitated when I went ahead of her. Apparently she was prone to fainting when she was 'out of her comfort zone'. I have no idea of the outcome, but she had a friend with her for support. You said you didn't think you were nervous as such, but having that support might have helped you.
