|  | Conditions Treatments | Infertility

Patient Injection Instructions for HCG

HCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) is a medication given via self-injection for women undergoing ovulation induction. HCG may be used to prepare for procedures such as IUI (intra uterine insemination) and IVF (in vitro fertilization). Timing is essential when administering the injection to ensure that ovulation can be controlled by the physician. The physician prescribing the medication will provide detailed instructions on timing.

  1. Preparing for the Injection

    • Gather the necessary supplies to administer an HCG injection: medication, syringe, needles, alcohol wipes, tissues and a container to dispose of used needles. Thoroughly read instructions given by the prescribing physician as well as instructions that have come with the medication. HCG may come in a premixed, filled syringe, or it may need to be mixed at home. At the designated time for injection, wash your hands with soap and water before beginning the injection.

    Mixing HCG

    • Remove any plastic or caps from the medication and syringe, and wipe the medication bottle top with an alcohol wipe. Attach the needle to the syringe and pull the plunger, filling with air, until the correct dosage appears at the plunger tip. Remove the cap from the needle and insert the needle into the vial containing the liquid medication. Depress the plunger. Turn the vial upside down and withdraw 1 cc of liquid into the syringe. Place the vial right side up and withdraw the needle. Inject the solution into the vial containing powder and roll the vial to combine. Turn the vial with the medication upside down and withdraw the medicine into the syringe. Remove the needle and replace with a new needle. Remove the cap from the new needle.

    Administering the Injection

    • Hold the syringe with the needle pointing up and gently tap the side to move any air bubbles to the needle. Choose a site to administer the injection and pinch the skin with your hand. Wipe the area with an alcohol swab. Hold the needle at a 90-degree angle from the injection site. Insert the entire needle, and depress the plunger to inject the medication. Remove the needle and wipe the area with an alcohol wipe. Hold a tissue over the area with light pressure to stop any bleeding. Place the needle, syringe and other supplies in a container to dispose of them per instructions from your physician or pharmacist.

Infertility - Related Articles