Patient Instructions for Giving HCG Shot

HCG, also known as human chorionic gonadotropin, is a hormone administered to patients undergoing fertility treatment to induce ovulation. HCG injections may also be given to patients who are following an hCG diet. Taking an hCG shot should be done under the supervision of a physician or medical professional.

Preparing the Injection

• HCG injections used for triggering ovulation may be either injected as subcutaneous (just under the skin) or intramuscular (into the muscle tissue). The dosage will be determined by the physician overseeing the ovulation induction. The physician or medical professional will provide the patient with instructions for administering the injection, including the time frame to administer the medication to coincide with treatment goals. The injection may come pre-filled with medication or the patient may need to mix the medication and fill the syringe to the correct dosage.

  Begin by assembling the necessary equipment based upon the instructions provided by the physician. Gather the syringe, any medication, a sharps container, alcohol pads and cotton balls. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Remove any wrappings from the needles and medications. Wipe the tops of any medication vials with an alcohol wipe. For medication that is not pre-filled in the syringe, draw air into the syringe before placing the needle in the vial. Draw enough air so that the level matches the dosage of medication needed. Place the needle into the vial and press down on the syringe to push the air into the vial. Turn the vial with the needle inside upside down and pull on the syringe to withdrawal the correct amount of medication, per physician instructions. Change the needle to the needle necessary for injection, and gently tap on the side of the syringe to bring any bubbles to the surface at the needle.

Administering the HCG Shot

• Wipe the area pn the patient where the hCG will be injected with an alcohol wipe, and insert the needle at a right angle to the skin. Press on the plunger to inject the medication and then withdraw needle. Wipe with alcohol and place a cotton ball over the injection site with slight pressure to stop any bleeding. Dispose of the needles in a sharps container.