For many women, one of the most intimidating parts of an IVF cycle is the thought of taking multiple injections every day. There is fear, confusion, and a lot of assumptions-many women feel they will need five to ten injections daily throughout the treatment. In reality, IVF injections are far more manageable, structured, and scientifically planned than most patients expect.
This blog explains what IVF injections are, how many are typically required, when they are given, and what precautions you should take to ensure the best results.
How Many Injections Are Required During IVF?
Most women undergoing IVF need a maximum of two to three injections per day.
In many cases, the number may even be fewer, depending on the stimulation protocol recommended by the fertility specialist.
Only a small percentage of women require a longer or more intense injection protocol-such as those with:
Low ovarian reserve or very low AMH
Older age
Multiple previous IVF failures
In such patients, stimulation may begin as early as day 21 of the previous cycle, meaning injections continue both before and after the next period. This results in a longer duration of injections, but it is necessary for better egg development.
For the majority of women, IVF injections start on day 2 or day 3 of the menstrual cycle.
What Tests Are Done Before Starting IVF Injections?
Before stimulation begins, doctors check whether the ovaries are ready. Pre-IVF evaluation usually includes:
Hormonal blood tests
Husband’s semen analysis
Baseline ultrasound
The ultrasound helps determine whether the ovaries are “quiet,” meaning:
No ovarian cysts
No large follicles
No abnormalities
Once the reproductive system is prepared, stimulation injections are initiated.
Important Questions to Ask Before Starting IVF Injections
One of the most overlooked but essential aspects of IVF is the cost of injections.
Many centers provide IVF package prices that do not include medication costs, especially injection costs.
Since these injections:
Are manufactured using advanced biotechnology
Often require international import
Must be stored under controlled conditions
Their price can be significant. In many cases, the cost of IVF injections alone can reach around ₹1,00,000 depending on dose and duration.
Patients must always ask:
“Are the injections included in my IVF package?”
Understanding this prevents financial stress during treatment.
Should IVF Injections Be Purchased from Wholesale Stores?
Many patients try to save money by purchasing IVF injections from wholesale stores or from pharmacy contacts. While cost-saving attempts are understandable, this approach may affect treatment quality.
When hospitals procure injections:
Batch numbers are carefully verified
All injections come from the same batch
Strict cold-chain storage is maintained
Transport and handling are monitored precisely
Wholesale or unknown vendors may not follow the same standards. IVF injections are extremely sensitive to temperature and storage conditions. Even slight variations can impact their efficiency and reduce ovarian response.
To ensure the best success rate, injections must be purchased from reliable, medically supervised sources.
Where Are IVF Injections Given?
IVF injections are usually administered in three possible areas:
Abdomen
Lower back
Upper arm
Most injections are given in the abdomen, because:
It is easy to access
Pain is minimal
Patients can self-administer them
Daily dosing becomes convenient
Patients are encouraged to take the first injection at the clinic, where the nurse can demonstrate the correct technique. Many women record a video during this demonstration so they can confidently self-inject at home.
Timing Matters: When Should IVF Injections Be Taken?
IVF injections are not flexible—they must be taken at specific times as instructed by the doctor.
Some injections are scheduled:
Only in the afternoon
Only in the evening
At fixed daily intervals
Trigger injections (which release the eggs) are particularly time-sensitive and are often scheduled late in the evening or at night. If a patient is uncomfortable administering the trigger injection alone at midnight or late hours, arrangements must be made earlier—either finding a nurse nearby or learning proper self-administration.
Maintaining strict timing improves egg quality and synchronization for egg retrieval.
How Long Do IVF Injections Last?
In most cases, IVF injections continue for 8 to 13 days.
The duration varies based on:
Age
Ovarian reserve
Response to stimulation
Type of IVF protocol used
Once the follicles reach the desired size, the egg retrieval (also called “pickup”) process is scheduled.
No matter how long the stimulation lasts, consistency and correct injection technique are essential for a successful IVF outcome.
Practical Tips for Women Starting IVF Injections
Take the first injection under nurse supervision.
Use the same brand and batch as advised.
Never miss or delay an injection.
Prepare a reminder system for injection timings.
Store injections properly-usually in refrigeration unless instructed otherwise.
Do not switch pharmacies without informing your IVF team.
Avoid expired or temperature-compromised products.
Keep emergency numbers handy, especially for late-night trigger shots.
A well-managed injection schedule significantly increases the chance of successful egg development.
Final Thoughts
IVF injections may seem intimidating in the beginning, but with proper guidance, timing, and reliable medication sources, the process becomes simple and manageable. Consistency and adherence to medical instructions are key factors that influence egg quality and overall IVF success.
Most importantly, women should remember that pain, fear, and anxiety are natural-but with the right support system, IVF injections transform from a frightening step into an empowered and hopeful experience.
On behalf of Patki Hospital, Kolhapur, we encourage women to clarify their doubts, understand their protocol, follow strict timing, and choose medically supervised injection sources to ensure the highest chances of success.