If you have been struggling to conceive naturally, there are several treatment options available to help you become pregnant. IVF (IN-Vitro Fertilization) is one of the best fertility treatments that gained popularity in recent times with effective results. The process involves various steps such as ovary stimulation, egg retrieval, sperm extraction, egg fertilization, embryo transfer, etc. For ovarian stimulation, one must take injections to make the ovaries produce a greater number of matured eggs. This allows the doctor to collect a greater number of matured eggs and increases the chances of IVF success.
Why Do I Need Injections During IVF Cycle?
Injecting medications is important while undergoing an IVF cycle. In general, the ovaries produce only one egg in a month. By using injectable medications, ovaries produce a greater number of matured eggs for fertilization. From the matured eggs, the doctor can select good-quality eggs and thereby increase the chances of implantation. The IVF injections can greatly alter your ovulation and the doctor can adjust the dosage based on the required results.
The IVF injections are given either into the muscle or directly into the fat under your skin. Two different medicines are given as injections for IVF. One of the medications is for stimulating the eggs. The other type of medicine is used to stop eggs from ovulating early. These injections are given during the retrieval process and embryo transfer to make a woman more fertile. In some cases, women are also given progesterone after embryo transfer to support implantation.
How Many Injections are Required for IVF Treatment?
The number of injections required during IVF treatment is not constant and it varies from one person to another. The number vary based on the IVF protocol and hospital being chosen by you. The doctor will decide the accurate number of injections based on the chosen IVF treatment and your overall health. The doctor adjusts the dosage as required by monitoring the follicles in the ovaries through ultrasound and other tests. You should always stick to the dosage being set by the doctor to promote ovulation induction and increase the chances of IVF success rate.
In general, you may need 1 to 2 injections every day for about 10 days during the ovulation stimulation period.
Are IVF Injections Painful?
IVF injections are given either on the thigh, arm, or belly just as insulin shots. The IVF injections only give a slight pinching like sensation on the skin. However, the pain varies from one person to another. People who are more sensitive and are afraid of injections experience more pain and discomfort. Hence, it is important to bring your partner along with you for support during IVF injections. You can also discuss your concerns with your doctor. He can help you feel comfortable while taking IVF injections.
What Can I Expect from IVF Injections?
Using IVF injections, the doctor has full control over your ovulation. The doctor keeps monitoring follicles using ultrasound and blood tests. Based on that, the doctor modifies the dosage as required.
When you are given IVF injections, you may experience the following:
- The appetite and the metabolic rate change. You might have more cravings and hunger than usual
- Mood swings and emotional changes
- Constipation and diarrhoea
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Upset stomach
- Nausea and bloating
How Can I Make IVF Injections Easy for Me?
The IVF process can be challenging and you may experience several challenges even during IVF injections. But there are several ways that can help you deal with pain and discomfort:
- Educate yourself about the IVF process. Interact with your doctor and learn about IVF injections, etc.
- Visit a cognitive-behavioural therapist to combat the fear of injections. This is important as you may need to take up to 90 shots during the IVF cycle
- Numb the injection site using ice or a cold pack
Do Not Worry About IVF Injections! Angels Fertility Can Ease Your Worries and Fear
Angels Fertility is one of the best fertility centers in Hyderabad by keeping patient care as its core goal. We follow a patient-centric approach and it makes us unique from other fertility centers. We aim at providing healthcare services at an affordable price and make infertile couples start their journey towards parenthood. We ensure to offer the best results for every patient who visits us. Start your IVF journey with us by scheduling an appointment with one of our fertility specialists.