Confidence comes from knowing exactly what to do and why each step matters. This guide walks through the whole process, from the fridge to the sharps container.

Key points

• • Most fertility injections go just under the skin of the lower stomach, using a very fine, short needle.
  • Letting a refrigerated medicine reach room temperature first can make it sting less.
  • Hold the needle in for a slow count of 10 so the full dose goes in.
  • If you miss a dose or something goes wrong, call your clinic. Never double up.

Where do fertility injections go?

Most fertility medicines are subcutaneous injections, which means they go into the layer of fat just under the skin, not into muscle. The usual spot is your lower stomach, at least a few finger widths away from your belly button. Some people use the front of the thigh instead.

The needles on fertility pens are very short and fine, often thinner than you expect. Your clinic will usually show you how to give the first injection, either in person or by video. If they have not, ask. It is one of the most useful ten minutes of the whole cycle.

How do I prepare before my first injection?

Choose a regular time each evening and a calm spot with a clean, flat surface. Take your medicine out of the fridge 15 to 30 minutes beforehand if your leaflet allows it, since cold medicine tends to sting more. Check the name, the dose and the expiry date every time, especially once you have more than one medicine on the go.

Some pens need priming the first time you use them, which means releasing a tiny test dose to clear air from the needle. Some medicines come as a powder you mix with liquid first. Both are covered in the leaflet, and your pharmacist can show you how. Have your sharps container open and within reach before you begin. 

What are the steps for the injection itself?

Devices differ, so follow your leaflet wherever it says something different. For most pens, the steps look like this:

• • Wash your hands, then clean the skin with an alcohol swab and let it dry completely.
  • Attach a new needle, dial your dose and check it in the window.
  • Gently pinch a fold of skin between your thumb and finger.
  • Insert the needle straight in, at a right angle, in one smooth movement.
  • Press the button all the way and hold the needle in place for a slow count of 10.
  • Pull the needle straight out, let go of the skin, and press gently with a cotton ball. Do not rub.
  • Remove the needle and put it straight into your sharps container.

How can I make injections hurt less?

A few small habits make a noticeable difference. Let the alcohol dry fully, because wet alcohol stings. Hold an ice pack on the spot for a minute beforehand to numb it. Relax your stomach and breathe out slowly as the needle goes in. Change the exact spot each night, keeping a few centimetres away from the last one.

Small bruises, redness and a brief sting are all common. Some medicines simply sting more than others, which is about the medicine, not your technique. If you would rather a partner gives the injection, that is completely fine. Many couples learn together so either person can step in.

What should I do if something goes wrong?

Missed doses, wrong doses, a jammed pen or medicine left out of the fridge overnight all happen, and none of them mean your cycle is over. Call your clinic before your next dose and follow their advice. Never give a double dose to make up for a missed one. Save your clinic's after hours number in your phone before the cycle starts.

Call 000 if you notice swelling of your face or lips, difficulty breathing or a widespread rash after an injection. When your sharps container is full, seal it and ask your pharmacy or local council where to drop it off, as arrangements vary between areas.

How Ace can help

Every pen and mixing kit is a little different, and the leaflet is not always the easiest read at nine o'clock at night. Ace pharmacists can walk you through your specific medicines before your first dose, and you can chat with a pharmacist through the Ace portal whenever a question comes up. Get started with Ace.

References

Better Health Channel. Assisted reproductive technology: IVF and ICSI.
healthdirect. Needlestick injuries.
healthdirect. Getting the most out of your pharmacist.

This article is for general information only and does not constitute medical advice. Always follow the instructions from your fertility clinic and the leaflet supplied with your medicine.