Remind yourself that the shot is going to help you in the long run. Whatever shot you’re getting, it’s for your own health.

Bringing a childhood comfort toy, like a teddy bear, can also make the experience a lot more bearable. Don’t be embarrassed about it — do whatever you need to make sure you go through with this shot. [2] X Research source You might also listen to music on your phone or iPod to distract you while you wait. You can even do this while you’re getting your shot!

Ask them to give you the shot in whichever way causes you the least stress. You might ask the provider to count to three before giving you the shot, so you’ll know it’s coming. Or, you might want to look away and have him give the shot without warning. Understanding how the shot will help might set your mind at ease. Ask the provider to tell you how it will make your life better. You can request a handout with information about the shot, as well. [4] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source

Adults: Apply 2. 5g of the cream to a 7-10 inch (20-25 cm) area of skin on the upper arm/shoulder, where you’ll get the shot. Cover it up with a bandage, and leave the cream on your skin for at least an hour. [5] X Research source Children: ask your doctor whether you should use EMLA cream on your child. Side effects include pain, swelling, burning, redness, paleness, and temperature sensation change.

Jumping in the middle of a shot can cause nerve pain, which leads to worse pain at the site of the injection. [9] X Research source In fact, if you tense your body for an injection, you may experience pain in other areas as a result. [10] X Research source

Give him or her a pacifier to suck on Provide soothing skin-to-skin contact Swaddle the baby Give him or her glucose water drops with a pacifier Place a musical mobile 20-25 cm (8-10 inches) above the baby[17] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

You can also distract the child by reading a book, playing music, or playing an educational game with him or her during the shot. [24] X Research source

Don’t tell them that the prize depends on whether they cry or not. Crying during the shot is alright. They just have to make it through the doctor’s visit to get their reward.