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Stepping into the world of IVF treatment can be overwhelming, especially while learning about the different IVF injection, the procedure, worrying about pain, timing or doing things incorrectly. But you do not have to do this alone. We have helped numerous couples manage their IVF injections at Unittas Hospital Chennai with the help of Dr. Anjana's systematic approach, wherein 95% master self-administration within just 3 days.
To help you navigate through this intimidating process of undertaking an IVF treatment in Chennai, we have put together this guide on taking IVF injections at home, the cost, types, timelines, storage, side effects and success tips to make you feel confident as you sail through this journey.
Types of IVF Injections
IVF injections are hormonal medications that carefully mimic or regulate the natural processes of a woman's reproductive cycle. The primary aim of these injections are to control ovulation, stimulate multiple eggs, and prepare the uterus for implantation. These medications are given to support those are not able to enable this process naturally in their body. Some major types of IVF injections are:
🔒 Suppression Injections
GnRH agonists/antagonistsLupride injection, Cetrotide)
Prevent premature ovulation so eggs can develop properly.
💉 Stimulation Injections
FSHGonal-F injection,Menopur injection, Follistim)
Encourage the ovaries to produce multiple mature eggs.
🎯 Trigger Injection
HCG injections HCG injections, HuCOG injection, Ovidrel)
Final maturation step; ensures eggs are ready for retrieval.
🌱 Luteal Support
Progesterone (injections or suppositories)
Prepares the uterine lining and supports early pregnancy.
IVF Injection Schedule
One of the most important part of taking an IVF injection is to adhere to a specific clear-cut timeline to ensure optimal results. Every stage of IVF has its own set of injections, each designed to guide the body step by step toward egg retrieval and embryo transfer. Knowing one's IVF injection timeline ensures that the body is ready and prepared to take on the next stage of the IVF treatment.
Phase 1: Suppression (Days 1-14)
- Lupride/GnRH agonist daily
- Purpose: Prevent premature ovulation
Phase 2: Stimulation (Days 15-25)
- FSH injections daily
- LH support if needed
- Monitoring every 2-3 days
Phase 3: Trigger (Day 26)
- HCG single injection
- Timing: Exactly 36 hours pre-retrieval
Phase 4: Luteal Support
- Progesterone daily
- Continue until 12 weeks if pregnant
IVF Daily Injections Schedule
| Day | Morning | Evening | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-14 | --- | Lupride 0.5mg | Suppression |
| 15-24 | Gonal-F dose | Lupride 0.25mg | Stimulation |
| 26 | --- | HCG 10 PM | Trigger shot |
| 28 | Retrieval | --- | Procedure day |
IVF Hormones Injections Storage Guidelines
❄️ Refrigerated (2-8°C)
- Gonal-F after mixing
- Menopur after mixing
- Ovidrel
- Lupride after opening
🌡️ Room Temperature
- Unopened vials
- Progesterone oil
- Cetrotide < 25°C
Self-Administering IVF Injections
The thought of administering IVF injections by self might sound intimidating at first, but with adequate training by Dr. Anjana and some practice, most patients feel confident to do this on their own very soon. Here are some quick and easy ways to administer IVF injections by the subcutaneous approach (under the skin):
📋 Step-by-Step Guide
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Prepare your injection, mix the medication if required (for example, Menopur) or take it directly from the pre-filled syringe (like Ovidrel)
- Choose the right site, usually the lower abdomen (2 inches away from the belly button) or upper thigh. Rotate sites daily to avoid soreness
- Clean the skin with an alcohol swab and allow it to dry completely
- Pinch a small fold of skin between your fingers to create a firm surface
- Insert the needle quickly and smoothly at a 90° or 45° angle (as advised)
- Inject the medication slowly and steadily
- Withdraw the needle and apply gentle pressure with a cotton ball—avoid rubbing
- Dispose of needles safely in a sharps container
IVF Injection Side Effects
While there are no major side effects for undertaking IVF injections, here are some mild side effects that might occur in some cases:
- Redness or bruising at injection site
- Bloating or abdominal heaviness
- Mood swings or headaches
- Rarely, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
📌 Please Note
Almost all the side effects are temporary, easily manageable and can be monitored to take it further to Dr. Anjana's notice.
Pain Reduction Tips
💡 Make Injections More Comfortable
- Ice the injection site for 2 minutes before
- Let alcohol swabs dry fully before injecting
- Warm the medication to room temperature
- Rotate injection sites daily
- Insert the needle quickly and confidently
🏥 Expert Support Every Step of the Way
We understand that undertaking IVF injections by itself can be an overwhelming and scary process. But we have got your back at Unittas Hospital. Dr. Anjana will train both you and your partner by providing you with step-by-step guidance to make your journey much more easier.
We can assure you success rates are on par with international standards, around 40-50% per cycle, depending on age and other factors.
Book Your Training SessionFAQs About IVF Injections
Q1: Can I self-inject?
+Yes. Around 80% of patients confidently self-inject after proper training. Dr. Anjana provides comprehensive hands-on training sessions for both patients and partners.
Q2: What if I see blood after injection?
+This is usually from a small capillary. Apply gentle pressure; it's harmless and doesn't affect the medication's effectiveness.
Q3: Can I exercise during IVF injections?
+Light activity is fine, but avoid heavy exercise after day 5 of stimulation to prevent ovarian torsion or injury to enlarged ovaries.
Q4: What if injection sites feel hard?
+Rotate areas and apply a warm compress to soften tissue. This prevents scar tissue buildup and makes future injections more comfortable.
Q5: Can I batch prepare injections?
+No. Always prepare injections fresh each time for safety and effectiveness. Pre-mixed medications can lose potency or become contaminated.
Start Your IVF Journey with Confidence
Book a consultation with Dr. Anjana today and find out your most ideal IVF treatment plan and get one step closer to your parenthood dreams.