6 STEPS TO IVF TREATMENT SUCCESS
A guide for easy and stress-free injections during IVF and egg-freezing. IVF is an emotional experience; don't underestimate the physical, emotional, and psychological effects on the success of your treatment.
Takera Mitchell, RN. BSN
The Introduction to Your IVF Medications
Anyone embarking on the journey through fertility treatments should be aware of the possibility of injections. The goal is to make this journey a bit easier to manage and to improve the success of your treatment on the path to parenthood.
You will need to temporarily become a chemist; mixing medications and a nurse as you inject them, but we'll guide you along the way. Don't be overwhelmed by the "big box" of medications and supplies. This is your handy dandy guide to handle your IVF injections like a pro.
Be Aware of Your Emotional Health
To manage physical and emotional stress, create a daily routine with enjoyable, relaxing activities like yoga, reading, or journaling. Focus on the quality of the activities for emotional healthFind Your Fertility Friend
IVF requires support. Choose at least one friend or family member (not your spouse) with whom you will share this experience. You don't have to do this alone; in fact, you really shouldn't.
Proper Injection Technique
Revie instructional videos or complete training in advance—not the day you're going to start your injections. Grab a good amount of skin, pinch an inch, and squeeze a little hard. This distracts you from the feeling of the actual needle stick. Allow the alcohol to dry completely before injecting.
Reduce Discomfort
If you need to, use topical numbing cream or ice for 10 seconds before the injection. Applying a warm compress and massaging the injection site afterwards can help with discomfort.
Preparing to Administer
Develop a routine. Make your injections fit into your life without altering things you don't need to. Designate a space in your home that allows you to be organized and find the best time for your lifestyle.
Avoid Information Overload
It's essential to be informed, but avoid online searches and forums once injections start. Ther won't know all the details about YOUR treatment to share accurate opinions. Don't get caught going down the Google rabbit holel. Ask your doctor any questions that arise.
Be Aware of Your Emotional Health
To manage physical and emotional stress, create a daily routine with enjoyable, relaxing activities like yoga, reading, or journaling. Focus on the quality of the activities for emotional healthFind Your Fertility Friend
IVF requires support. Choose at least one friend or family member (not your spouse) with whom you will share this experience. You don't have to do this alone; in fact, you really shouldn't.
Proper Injection Technique
Revie instructional videos or complete training in advance—not the day you're going to start your injections. Grab a good amount of skin, pinch an inch, and squeeze a little hard. This distracts you from the feeling of the actual needle stick. Allow the alcohol to dry completely before injecting.
Reduce Discomfort
If you need to, use topical numbing cream or ice for 10 seconds before the injection. Applying a warm compress and massaging the injection site afterwards can help with discomfort.
Preparing to Administer
Develop a routine. Make your injections fit into your life without altering things you don't need to. Designate a space in your home that allows you to be organized and find the best time for your lifestyle.
Avoid Information Overload
It's essential to be informed, but avoid online searches and forums once injections start. Ther won't know all the details about YOUR treatment to share accurate opinions. Don't get caught going down the Google rabbit holel. Ask your doctor any questions that arise.
Bonus Tip:
Hire Help If You Need To