Progesterone Injections

This is us. Danny giving me a Progesterone shot, with a Snap Chat filter of course.

So 5 days before your embryo transfer, you start progesterone (in addition to the estrogen patches). Apparently, this is the magic formula for a perfect uterus, preventing miscarriages. Every Dr. does this differently. For NOVA IVF, I have two days of intramuscular progesterone injections, then I move onto the vaginal suppositories, twice a day (600mg total). This continues 5-6 weeks after our transfer date to ensure our em-baby has a cozy and safe home to grow. *crosses fingers and toes*

I'm a few days into the suppositories, and I can't help but think the injections might be easier at this point. These suppositories are pill form you stick in your vagina, but once dissolved it's gross, messy, and uncomfortable (all day).

Some tips I learned for the progesterone injections:

1. Make sure you have your nurse/Dr. circle the injection spot - You'd be surprised how high it is on your glute!
2. WooSaaa with some lavender oil/pillow spray and your favorite calming song
3. We did this laying down on the bed with both glutes relaxed
4. I iced the spot for 4 minutes to help with the pain
5. Prep the needle and alcohol pad - mine was ready for Danny, as soon as I gave him the go
6. Breath deep breaths - good vibes - it'll be worth it
7. Right after the shot - put pressure onto the site and massage it
8. Place a hot water bag to help dissolve the oil - this helped A LOT with the soreness
9. Treat your self - chocolate, a handful of Hot Cheetos, anything... 

The 2nd day I was less sore. I think the hot water pack helped because I used a microwaved neck pillow the first day, and I don't think it was warm enough. 

Whichever method we have to do to get the progesterone in us, it's not pleasant, but it'll be worth it.