Hi
I wish I had a film of the first time I attempted to test!! The idea of drawing my own blood made me feel like passing out!! I sat there for ages ... and ages .... finger pricker poised ..... and I just couldn't get the courage to do it. It was awful. In the end, I decided to cough .... yes, cough at the exact moment that I pressed the finger pricker - and that really helped!!
I always wash hands thoroughly, rub them together briskly, shake them a bit ... and always test from the top sides, not the tips/pads. I don't squeeze near the site, cos this can affect the reading.
After starting as a really squeamish newcomer I am now totally sanguine (ha ha) about it. I think if you are VERY interested in the results, it helps.
The other day, I cut my finger quite badly on some glass ..... my thoughts, ****!! I could've tested that!!!
Good luck
CathyN