How Can I Make Injections Easier?

Mariana

Injection was a big thing in the back of my mind as I delayed and delayed this process because I had this fear of doing it on my own. The folks that I knew who had done an egg retrieval process lived with a partner and they had someone. And ultimately, I just felt really empowered once I got it done properly- just knowing the process and that it's not as complicated as you think. But again we have this mindset that it’s going to be very intimidating, and patients have different reactions to needles- what can help?

Dr. Kofinas

The trick is when you're first doing the injections- if it can be done- see if the teaching can be done in-person close to the date that you're starting or even for your first injection. It takes away that fear. I tell a lot of patients after they're taught and it's fresh in their mind to put on an instructional video while they’re doing it so they don't feel alone. And then once you get through it once or twice, the injections become something that you just do for the next few days.

Mariana

You want to get the right amount of the medication, and that’s part of getting it right- it’s almost like a recipe where you have to get the measurements correct. And to know that- I had this instance where, because I had been on birth control and I was well into my injection process, I had to include Ganirelix as one of my injections 3 or 4 days in. 

Dr. Kofinas

Yes, that's typically taken four days into your cycle. It prevents ovulation. There’s a similar medication called Cetrotide. For that one, you want to make sure you get the whole dose because that's going to keep you from releasing the eggs, which would ruin the whole cycle.

Mariana

That was one part of the process where, even though I had gotten the injections down, there's some factors that are being monitored and checked even up until that trigger shot that are still changing. But, luckily with that information you know what path you are on, to get you ready for that retrieval moment. 

Dr. Kofinas

Yes, that monitoring helps get you ready for that retrieval moment. And again, when it comes to monitoring, every clinic's different. I like to tell my patients to come to my office and see me for monitoring because it's a great opportunity to ask questions. If you’re seeing your doctor and they’re monitoring you, ask them how it’s going and when they think the retrieval will be. You have a life and need to know when you’re going to be under anesthesia. You’ll have to get someone to pick you up and take the day off of work. You’ll need to know if there’s anything you can do to decrease the risks of complications. These are things that are evolving as you’re going through the process.