With the supervision of your fertility specialist and a proper prescription, you can begin your Ovidrel treatments.
If possible, your partner should also be present for training so that they can help you if you have trouble giving yourself the injection.
Keep in mind that it is quite safe to do these injections at home, so you may want to try pushing through your uncertainty and doing it yourself anyways. The first time is always the hardest, and it only gets easier each time. Your partner may also be able to administer the Ovidrel shot, if they have been properly trained by the doctor.
This includes seeking professional help from a counselor or therapist, if you feel like that might be beneficial to you. Additionally, remember that Ovidrel can cause mood swings. So there is a possibility the injections will make you feel even more emotional. Keep your expectations realistic. Ovidrel may not work immediately, it can take several months of injections and getting the rhythm right to conceive.
Use an antibacterial hand-sanitizing soap and a clean, disposable paper towel to dry your hands.
Make sure the syringe is in the original sealed package. It is dangerous to use needles that are not sterilized or that have been used by others. Make sure to check the expiration date on the box as well to ensure that the medication has not expired. Read the writing on the syringe to be sure it is the correct medication and dosage.
Be careful not to push too quickly or you may waste quite a bit of the liquid medication inside. You want to only expel one tiny drop that covers the tip of the needle.
You should also discuss your overall health and any preexisting conditions you may have with your doctor before administering the Ovidrel treatment.
If you decide to inject in the stomach area, then pick a spot that is about 2 in (5. 1 cm) away from your belly button – on either side or below it. Sterilize the area with an alcohol swab and let it air dry. Drying the injection site (or wiping off any excess alcohol) with a towel will re-contaminate the area and negate the sterilizing process you just completed.
Make sure you stick the needle far enough into your skin (about 1⁄4 in (0. 64 cm) or so). Gently remove the needle and use a Band-Aid (or gauze) if your skin is bleeding at the injection site.
Your doctor should be able to provide you with a small canister that is intended for disposal of sharp objects. You can store the used syringes in this container until you finish the treatment cycle, then seal the container and put it in the appropriate trash bin. This will protect others from accidentally getting poked by the needle.
Do not try to administer the injection when you remember it without discussing with your doctor first.
Normal side effects include slight discomfort, swelling, or bruising at the injection site; mild nausea; or digestive issues. If you have any of the following symptoms, then contact emergency services or go to an emergency room immediately: extreme abdominal pain, intense nausea and vomiting, shortness of breath, dizziness, or decreased urination.
