PIO newbie questions

KelinandKevin

So my RE send me the PIO (2 big bottles) and then some HUGE freakin' needles.  I called them in a panic because there is no way I could stick that in myself and they told me they were "draw" needles.  So should I be getting a different set of needles for the actual PIO shots?  What about syringes?  Are the PIO shots as awful as everyone says?  Also, I am supposed to use 1cc daily as well as Endometrin every night.  What dosage are others on?

TIA!

VTgirl06

I got a pack of syringes with drawing needle attached and separate set of needles for sticking, they were a bit thinner/smaller than the drawing needles. I iced the crap out of the area first for about 10 minutes until I could barely feel a touch, then couldn't even feel the needle going in. It stings a bit when the meds go in, but nothing too bad. Then immediately after the needle comes out, I would stick a heating pad on the area to help the meds get absorbed better. The area would be sore all day the following day, but nothing unmanageable. I used 1cc every evening and rotate the sides. Good luck-you can do it!

schoolsoutbride

You definitely need a separate set of needles to inject it with.  I think mine are 18G 1.5 to draw up and 22G 1.5 to inject.  I'd have to check, though.  I use whatever syringe came with the 18G (3ml?) and then switch the needles (they screw on and off)

Don't look at the needles if you can help it.  They don't hurt as bad as they look.  

My nurse drew circles on my butt and I rotate sides and locations in the circle (like a clock) to avoid hitting the same spot over and over.

chuckansarah

I use 22 1/2 gauge 3m needles to both draw and inject, but switch them after I draw it up so the needle is fresh and sharp. I have dh do it, so I don't have to look at the needle, I lay over the side of the bed and hide my face in a pillow (yes I'm a sissy--but it works). I also switch sides nightly.

MarriedaSportsNut

You will definitely use a thinner need for injection. If you don't have them, call your pharmacy.

I didn't think the PIO shots were as bad as others have said. I didn't ice beforehand, and I used to sit on a heating pad but found it didn't make much difference. And I was doing 2ccs til 10 weeks. For me it was more of an inconvenience than anything. I think my DH was really good at giving the shots, which helped.

Good luck to you!