The idea of injecting yourself with fertility medication can feel daunting — especially if you’re nervous about needles. Many people feel exactly the same at the start of IVF. While injections are an unavoidable part of treatment, understanding why they’re needed and how they work can make the process feel far more manageable. Focusing on the purpose behind each injection — and the goal you’re working towards — can also help you feel more in control.
Below, Dr Esther Marban explains what IVF injections are for, how they’re given, and practical ways to make them more comfortable.
What Are IVF Injections For?
Your IVF medication is given via subcutaneous injections, meaning they’re placed just under the skin into the fatty tissue above the muscle, using a very small needle.
According to Dr Esther Marbán, Fertility Specialist at Clínica Tambre, IVF injections work in stages:
1. Suppressing your natural cycle
Some injections temporarily “switch off” your natural hormonal cycle. These medications prevent premature ovulation by blocking gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), giving doctors full control over timing.
2. Stimulating the ovaries
Next, injections containing FSH or HMG stimulate the ovaries to encourage multiple follicles to grow. Each follicle contains a developing egg, and the aim is to collect a good number of mature eggs for retrieval. This phase usually lasts 7–12 days.
3. The trigger shot
The final injection is the trigger shot (hCG). This helps the eggs fully mature and detach from the follicle wall so they can be collected during egg retrieval.
Where Do IVF Injections Go?
Most patients inject medication into the lower belly, around the belly button, as the fatty tissue here makes injections easier and less uncomfortable. In some cases, injections can also be given in the thigh.
Are IVF Injections Painful?
For most people, IVF injections cause mild discomfort rather than pain. The needles are thin and short, but daily injections can lead to tenderness or soreness over time.
Tips to Ease Injection Discomfort
From personal IVF experience, here are some gentle ways to make injections easier:
- Pinch the skin during injection to reduce discomfort
- Apply ice to the area for 10–15 minutes beforehand to numb the skin
- Rotate injection sites to avoid soreness
- Visualise the end goal — take a deep breath and focus on why you’re doing this
- Ask for help — a partner or trusted friend can inject for you while you distract yourself with TV, music or reading
Will I Get a Medication Schedule?
Yes. Your clinic will provide a personalised treatment plan outlining:
- Which medication to take
- Dosages
- Injection timing
- When monitoring scans will take place
It’s important to follow this plan exactly as advised by your fertility team
Do IVF Injections Have Side Effects?
Some people experience mild bloating, swelling or tenderness, especially towards the end of stimulation. Emotional changes such as tearfulness or anxiety can also occur due to hormonal shifts — these symptoms are usually temporary and settle after treatment.
The Cost of IVF Medication
IVF medication can be expensive, and prices vary by country, pharmacy and dosage. Costs typically range between €900–€1,500, though shopping around can sometimes reduce this. In some countries, medication may be available through local pharmacies with a prescription.
Buying unused medication from other patients is not recommended, as storage conditions and safety cannot be guaranteed.
How Long Do You Take Progesterone After IVF?
Progesterone usually starts the day after egg retrieval and continues until the pregnancy test (around 11 days after embryo transfer). If the test is positive, progesterone is typically continued until around 10 weeks of pregnancy. It can be taken as vaginal pessaries or injections, depending on your clinic’s recommendation.
A Gentle Reminder
IVF injections can feel intimidating at first — but many people are surprised by how quickly they adapt. Understanding the purpose behind each step can help transform fear into confidence.
If you have questions about IVF medication, injections, or treatment planning, we’re here to support and guide you — our team and leading global experts are here to help. You’re not alone.
To get in touch with the wonderful team at Clinica Tambre visit here
