Progesterone injections help make the lining of the uterus thicker to prepare for the fertilized egg.
There are some common side effects, such as redness at the injection site.
This article explains why a progesterone in oil injection is important during pregnancy.
Illustration by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health
It also offers tips on how to self-administerintramuscular injectionsof progesterone.
When you have a positive pregnancy test, you may be asked to continue the injections for 10 weeks.
It can be difficult to give yourselfinjections.
And remember, its only temporary.
Injections should be given at about the same time every day.
The following sections give tips on how to do the progesterone injections.
If that isn’t an option, call your doctor’s office and ask for a tutorial.
In some cases, your healthcare provider may advise you on other areas to inject.
Never inject your medication into the same spot repeatedly.
This can increase your chances of tissue damage.
ensure you palpate (gently feel) your muscles before choosing a site.
If so, apply an amount the size of a penny.
Don’t rub in the cream.
Cover it with a bandage and wait one hour before removing the bandage and wiping off the cream.
Before injecting the progesterone, wash your hands and wipe the injection area with an alcohol wipe or pad.
Because the progesterone is contained in the oil, it can take a while to absorb into your muscles.
The heat will warm and thin the oil, helping boost absorption.
You should also gently massage the area after the injection is complete.
This can also help the progesterone get absorbed.
If you have allergies to peanuts or sesame, mention it to your doctor.
They may prescribe progesterone in olive oil instead.
Anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction, is a life-threatening emergency.
Oil can become thicker when it’s in a cold environment.
This can make it more difficult to draw up or inject.
Speak with your healthcare provider about which form would be best for you.
Summary
Progesterone is a hormone that is important for maintaining a healthy pregnancy.
For this reason, women who are undergoing IVF may have to give themselves progesterone injections.
Self-administering shots can be difficult, but there are ways to make the process easier and less painful.
Progesterone also comes in gel, tablet, and suppository form.
These are taken orally or placed in the vagina and don’t require an injection.
American Society for Reproductive Medicine.Progesterone Supplementation During IVF.
University of Rochester Medical Center.Progesterone.
Washington University Physicians.Progesterone and IVF: So why do I need this?
Fertility Center.In vitro fertilization.
2021;34(1):e14501.
doi: 10.2337/cd18-0076
University of Rochester Medical Center.
Strong Fertility Center.IVF information and medication instructions.
University Hospitals.Progesterone in oil (IM) patient instructions.
Oregon Health & Science University.Progesterone (injection).
Watson Pharma, Inc.Progesterone injection USP in sesame oil.
