Genetic Test

How It Feels

Blood sample from a heel stick

The baby may feel a brief sting or a pinch when the lancet pricks the skin. While the blood is being collected, there is very little or no discomfort.

Blood sample from a vein

You may feel nothing at all from the needle puncture, or you may feel a brief sting or pinch as the needle goes through the skin. Some people feel a stinging pain while the needle is in the vein. However, many people do not feel any pain, or have only minor discomfort, once the needle is positioned in the vein. The amount of pain you feel depends on the skill of the health professional drawing the blood, the condition of your veins, and your sensitivity to pain.

The collection of DNA from saliva, urine, or semen does not cause discomfort.

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Author:	Douglas Dana Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: July 10, 2007
Medical Review:	Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Renee H. Martin, PhD - Medical Genetics
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