Self-Injections for IVF: What Is It Really Like?

Sticking a needle into yourself... it's incredibly scary, isn't it?

This article covers what you should know before starting self-injections for fertility treatment.

First of all, why are self-injections necessary?

In IVF, ovulation induction drugs are used to help multiple eggs grow.

Since it is not realistic to visit a clinic every day for injections, "self-injections" at home have become the standard.

The medications used vary by clinic, but Gonal-f, Rekovelle, and Follistim are common examples. Recently, pen-type injectors have become common; they are simple to use, as you just dial the dosage and press a button.

Egg Retrieval Cycle Schedule

Knowing when self-injections start and end—and understanding the overall flow—can make you feel much more at ease.

CD1（生理開始）
　→ クリニックに連絡

CD3日目
　→ 受診・血液検査
　→ 自己注射スタート

CD7〜9日目
　→ 卵胞チェック・血液検査
　→ 自己注射を続ける

CD10〜12日目
　→ 卵胞の大きさを確認
　→ 採卵日を決定

CD12〜14日目
　→ HCG注射（採卵のトリガー）
　→ 採卵

CD16〜21日目
　→ OHSSの確認
　→ 次のステップへ

Self-injections are mainly performed for about 10 days, from CD3 until just before egg retrieval.

How to Perform Self-Injections

Things to Check Before Injecting

✅ 石けんで手をよく洗う
✅ 薬の使用期限を確認する
✅ 開封後は30分以内に使用する
✅ 冷蔵庫から出して室温に戻す
　　（冷たいまま打つと痛みが増す）

Injection Site

Inject into the skin of your abdomen at least 3 cm away from your navel. The key is to shift the location slightly each time.

Procedure

1. 注射部位をアルコール綿で拭く
2. ダイヤルを処方された単位に合わせる
3. お腹の皮膚を2〜3cmつまむ
4. 針を垂直に刺す
5. ボタンをゆっくり最後まで押す
6. 数秒待ってからゆっくり抜く
7. 使用済みの針は専用の廃棄ボックスへ

Once you get used to it, it only takes one or two minutes.

How Much Does It Hurt?

The needles are incomparably thinner than those used for blood draws, so the pain is just a slight prick.

Here are some tips to reduce the pain.

✅ 薬を室温に戻してから打つ
✅ お腹の皮膚をしっかりつまむ
✅ 息を吐きながらゆっくり刺す
✅ 毎回場所を少しずつずらす

You Can Practice at the Clinic, So Don't Worry

Many people feel anxious, wondering, "Do I have to do this by myself right away?"

But please rest assured. You will always practice with a nurse at the clinic first. They will carefully teach you the steps and support you until you actually perform the injection yourself.

You will not be expected to do it alone right away.

Managing Injections During Business Trips or Travel

Most ovulation induction drugs require refrigeration. When traveling or on a business trip, carry them in a cooler bag and store them in a hotel refrigerator.

✅ 保冷バッグと保冷剤を用意する
✅ ホテル予約時に冷蔵庫の有無を確認
✅ 飛行機の場合は機内持ち込みにする
　　（預け荷物は温度管理ができないため）
✅ 廃棄ボックスも忘れずに持参
✅ 出張が決まったらすぐクリニックに相談

If you have a business trip coming up, consult your clinic first. They can help you plan for medication adjustments and other necessary arrangements.

Be Aware of OHSS

One thing to watch out for during the self-injection period is OHSS. This is a condition caused by the ovaries being overstimulated by ovulation induction drugs.

While mild bloating or a feeling of heaviness is somewhat normal, please contact your clinic immediately if you experience symptoms like these.

⚠️ すぐに連絡すべき症状
・お腹が急激に張る・強い痛み
・急激な体重増加（1日2kg以上）
・吐き気・嘔吐
・尿が出にくい

To You, Who Feels Like You Can't Tell Anyone

I think very few people are able to tell their colleagues at work that they are performing self-injections.

Injecting a needle into your abdomen alone every night, and then going to work as usual the next morning without telling anyone—that sense of loneliness is something only those who have experienced it can understand.

But you are not alone.

There are people all over Japan who are doing the same thing, working hard every night while injecting themselves and keeping it to themselves.

You are doing more than enough.

There is definitely a next step waiting for you after you get through this.
If this was helpful, please like and follow; it encourages me.

Rira