Venesection in London – Safe Blood Removal at Home or In-Clinic
At London Blood Tests, we provide safe and professional venesection services in London, available both in-clinic (£150) and at home (£200). Each procedure is performed by trained medical staff in a sterile environment to ensure your comfort and safety throughout.
Venesection, also known as therapeutic phlebotomy, is a medical procedure involving the controlled removal of blood from the body. It’s often prescribed for conditions such as haemochromatosis or polycythaemia to help restore balance and improve overall health.
Our team ensures that every procedure is handled with precision and care. Whether you choose to have your procedure in our clinic or in the comfort of your own home, you’ll receive the same high standard of medical care—professional, sterile, and always patient-focused.
In-Clinic Venesection
Controlled Medical Setting
For patients who prefer a traditional healthcare environment.
£150Clinic Appointment
- Brief monitoring by clinical team
- Sterile, equipped facility
- Avoid strenuous activity after
Venesection at Home
Privacy & Convenience
Ideal for mobility limitations or avoiding travel.
£200Home Visit
- Qualified nurse brings equipment
- Rest immediately in your home
- Includes health check
The Procedure
Venesection Services Explained
Our venesection services in London are carried out by qualified medical professionals who specialise in safe blood collection and patient comfort. Whether performed at home or in our clinic, each procedure follows strict clinical protocols to ensure effectiveness and safety.
What Happens During a Venesection
A venesection involves removing a small amount of blood, usually between 350–500 ml, to reduce red blood cell volume or lower iron levels in the body. Before the procedure, your nurse will:
- Review your medical history and recent blood test results.
- Measure your blood pressure, pulse, and oxygen levels.
- Explain each step of the procedure so you feel confident and informed.
Once you are comfortable, a sterile needle is inserted into a vein in your arm, and the required amount of blood is gently withdrawn into a medical-grade collection bag. The entire process typically takes 20–30 minutes, followed by a short rest period to ensure stability.
Aftercare and Recovery
Following a venesection, you may experience mild fatigue or lightheadedness. Rest, hydrate well, and eat a balanced meal. Most patients feel back to normal within a few hours.
Health Improvements
Benefits of Venesection
1. Regulates Iron Levels
Lowers iron stores for haemochromatosis, preventing organ damage to the liver, heart, and pancreas.
2. Reduces Blood Viscosity
Thins blood for polycythaemia patients, improving circulation and decreasing the risk of blood clots.
3. Promotes Heart Health
Supports vascular health by regulating blood volume and easing the workload on the circulatory system.
4. Relieves Fatigue
Eases symptoms like tiredness, dizziness, and headaches by improving oxygen transport.
5. Prevents Complications
Helps prevent serious complications linked to iron overload or high red cell count.
6. Safe & Quick
Low-risk procedure taking less than 30 minutes with minimal recovery time and lasting benefits.
7. Improves General Wellbeing
Improved energy, concentration, and sleep quality as the body’s oxygen balance returns to normal.
The Process
Step by Step: Therapeutic Phlebotomy
Enquiry & Booking
Choose In-Clinic (£150) or Home (£200). Share diagnosis (e.g., haemochromatosis), recent labs, meds, and allergies. We confirm suitability.
Pre-Appointment Prep (24–48 hrs)
Hydrate well (6-8 glasses). Eat a light meal 1-2 hrs before. Avoid alcohol. Bring/photo ID and latest blood tests.
Arrival / Set-Up
Clinic: Check-in and setup. Home: Nurse sets a clean area (chair/recliner/table) and reviews consent.
Safety Check
Review of symptoms, meds (esp. anticoagulants), and allergies. Vitals check (BP, pulse, O2). Confirm target volume.
Cannulation & Asepsis
Skin cleaned with antiseptic. Sterile needle/cannula placed into a forearm vein.
Controlled Blood Removal
Typically 350–500 ml collected (15-20 mins). Nurse monitors vitals and adjusts flow for comfort.
Completion & Site Care
Needle removed, sterile dressing applied. Gentle pressure for 2-3 mins to prevent bruising.
Recovery & Observation
Water/juice provided; light snack encouraged. Final vitals check before discharge or sign-off.
Aftercare (Same Day)
Drink 1-2L water. Avoid heavy lifting/hot baths for 24hrs. Keep dressing dry for 2-4hrs. Expect mild tiredness.
Follow-Up Plan
Frequency guided by clinician. Repeat labs as advised. We can pre-book next session.
Our Promise
Why Choose London Blood Tests
At London Blood Tests, your safety, comfort, and care come first. We combine clinical expertise with a patient-focused approach, ensuring your treatment is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
- Expert Medical Team: Experienced nurses trained in therapeutic phlebotomy.
- Home & Clinic Flexibility: Choose In-Clinic (£150) or Home Visit (£200).
- Fast, Hassle-Free Appointments: Same-day and next-day bookings available.
- Personalised Medical Attention: We review your history and explain every step.
- Trusted Quality: Trusted by doctors and patients across London.
- Safe, Sterile & Comfortable: Single-use equipment and full monitoring.
- Transparent Pricing: Clear, upfront fees with no hidden costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Browse our most asked questions
See answers to common questions about QMR therapy and our services.
Venesection, also known as therapeutic phlebotomy, is a controlled medical procedure where a small amount of blood is removed from the body to reduce red blood cell count or iron levels. It’s commonly used to treat conditions like haemochromatosis and polycythaemia.
Venesection is most often prescribed for haemochromatosis (iron overload) and polycythaemia (too many red blood cells). It may also be recommended for other blood disorders where reducing blood thickness helps prevent complications.
Typically, between 350 and 500 ml of blood is removed during each venesection session. The exact amount depends on your diagnosis, recent blood test results, and your doctor’s recommendations.
The entire procedure usually takes 20 to 30 minutes, including preparation, blood collection, and a short recovery period to ensure you feel well before finishing your appointment.
No, venesection is generally painless or mildly uncomfortable. You may feel a brief pinch when the needle is inserted, followed by a sensation similar to a standard blood test. Most patients tolerate it very well.
You should be well-hydrated, eat a light meal beforehand, and avoid alcohol or heavy exercise on the day of your appointment. Wearing loose clothing helps with comfort and accessibility.
After the procedure, you’ll be advised to rest, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid strenuous activity for the rest of the day. Mild tiredness or lightheadedness is normal and resolves quickly.
Frequency depends on your medical condition and blood results. Some patients may need venesection weekly or monthly at first, then move to maintenance treatments every few months once levels are stable.
Yes. At London Blood Tests, we offer home venesection visits (£200), performed by qualified medical professionals with sterile equipment. This option provides comfort, privacy, and convenience without compromising safety.
Because we offer safe, professional, and flexible venesection in London, performed by experienced clinicians. With both home (£200) and in-clinic (£150) options, you can receive trusted medical care that fits your schedule and comfort.