Words of wisdom re: Follistim?

I'm doing my first Follistim injection tonight. I watched the dvd last week and will watch it again before I give myself the shot.

Any words of wisdom from the ladies who have BTDT would be much appreciated.

I'm sure it'll be no big deal once I get past the first injection. I'm not squeamish, just a little timid at the moment.

TIA

Message edited 7/22/2008 7:34:39 PM.

Re: Words of wisdom re: Follistim?

are you doing IM or subQ?

I've never actually done follistim- only gonal-f (subQ) and menopur (IM).

For subq (i ice first but a lot of ppl on here don't) I pinch the skin first and stick the needle in, then release....

for IM my DH stretches the skin and darts it in. Neither one really hurt. Anxiety really is the worst part. GL!!!

Re: Words of wisdom re: Follistim?

It is subq. Thanks for the tip!

Re: Words of wisdom re: Follistim?

Of all the injectables I've ever taken, Follistim was by far the easiest both to inject and to use- You'll do great !

Re: Words of wisdom re: Follistim?

I don't ice. Just pinch your belly really hard and you won't even feel the needle. Make sure the alcohol is dry or you may get some stinging. And don't pull it out too quickly, leave it in there for a few seconds after you inject it. G/L!

ETA Just realized this was from yesterday - hope it went well!

Message edited 7/23/2008 8:34:58 AM.

Re: Words of wisdom re: Follistim?

I loved Follistim...The needle is so TINY, I truly BARELY felt it going in.....

Re: Words of wisdom re: Follistim?

Super easy and painless shot. Best of luck, you will be fine!

Re: Words of wisdom re: Follistim?

The Follistim Pen was cake! I thought it was going to be much worse than it was.

Three suggestions:
1. Let it sit out for about 45 minutes if you are refrigirating it. the needle and medication pinches less if it's room temp.
2. Don't even bother trying to stick it in your arm. The thought of sticking it in my lower tummy freaked me out but it turned out to be much easier in the tummy. It's easier to be able to use both hands and lets face it their is always more to pinch around the tummy area
3. The first few days you should feel some mild bloating and twinges in the ovarian area. After the follies are there (typcially just when finish the course) you might feel very bloated and cramped (I am kind of miserable now). As uncomfortable as it is, it's a good thing. It means it's working. I had 4 follies (2 on each side) last week (my left tube was removed after my ectopic pg in January). We were allowed to proceed with the HCG trigger and BD. The 2WW is a killer! Fingers crossed.

Good luck!!!

Re: Words of wisdom re: Follistim?

Thank you all. It wasn't too bad and I know tonight will be easier, having gotten the first one overwith.

I appreciate the help!

Message edited 7/23/2008 1:38:55 PM.

Re: Words of wisdom re: Follistim?

Re: Words of wisdom re: Follistim?

I used follistim and I had success with it. The needle is very tiny, it doesn't hurt at all. (but then again I had a nice big fat cushion for it lol)
XOXOXO
BOTB