Chapter 11: The start of our IVF cycle @ NUH
30 May: Period started
12 June: Collected oral medicine (Norethisterone) and signed consent forms
16 June: Started oral medicine for a week
26 June: Gynae scan and collected medicine for the jabs in the complimentary Merck branded cooler bag
27 June: Day 1 jabs between 6-9pm
I dreaded the first jab so badly. No amount of mental prep was enough till it actually started. Look at the size of the syringe.
But perhaps I have sufficient belly fats to cushion the impact. In fact I was surprised when I didn’t feel a thing. I was so prepared to cry and get some hugs from the husband.
A tip to anyone reading this to prep for IVF: Ice the area for at least 5 mins before the jab!! This helps a lot!!
Starting an IVF cycle can be emotionally and physically demanding, but having the right preparation helps immensely. For anyone about to begin their IVF injections, one useful tip I discovered is to ice the injection site for at least five minutes beforehand. This simple step can significantly reduce discomfort. The pre-filled injection pens, like the one branded by Merck that I used, often require refrigeration but should never be frozen. Always keep them away from children and check expiration dates carefully. Following the storage instructions ensures the medication remains effective. Regarding the injection site, many people worry about where to inject. Typically, injections are administered subcutaneously in areas with enough fatty tissue, such as the belly. Despite my initial fear of the needle size, I was pleasantly surprised to feel minimal pain — possibly due to adequate fat cushioning the injection. An IVF timeline can feel overwhelming, with periods starting, medicines to collect and take, scans, and injections all tightly scheduled. Keeping a detailed diary of appointments and medication timings can make the process smoother and less stressful. Remember that emotional support is just as important. Having a partner or friend to rely on helps adapt through the ups and downs. My husband’s encouragement after the first jab, which I expected to be painful, made a big difference. Finally, don’t hesitate to ask your medical team any questions about injection techniques or medication storage. Understanding your treatment fully empowers you during this journey.
