Even Dr. Sonja Grey once had a mega fear of needles—and she’s now a doctor! To ease the pain, she suggests telling your doc you’re scared and requesting the smallest needle possible—like a butterfly needle. It burns less if the alcohol dries completely before the shot. And don’t look at the needle!

Prepare yourself for N-day by looking at pictures of needles and then people getting injections. Then, look at actual needles. Imagine yourself getting a shot and not feeling it a bit. That whole mind-over-matter thing can really work. Dr. Grey also warns against a total freak-out—it can actually make it hurt more!

4/24/2009 10:00:00 AM