I prefer using the auto injector for the PIO instead of dealing with daily shots or vomiting.
I attempted using the modified natural method twice, but it was very unpredictable and both attempts were unsuccessful. However, using the medicated method was much more controlled, and I didn’t have a problem with the injections. I was able to switch to suppositories in my last two weeks, but ended up going back to PIO for another week because I couldn’t tolerate the suppositories. My clinic only requires PIO until week 8 (I opted to continue until week 9), and suppositories until week 10, so it wasn’t a very long time.
My pH is extremely sensitive, so using the suppositories during our first transfer caused a yeast infection. Having to insert them 3-4 times a day and dealing with the discharge was frustrating. On the other hand, using PIO once daily has been much easier!
There is a semi-medicated option available, and I believe I have recently taken progesterone both orally and vaginally. However, there are certain optimal conditions to consider, such as having a regular cycle and good tolerance to the medication.
Don’t worry, you’ll be okay. They may be irritating, but you’ll move past it.
Initially, I was on PIO for success but experienced severe reactions, such as high fevers, with two different types. This led me to switch to a modified natural cycle. My doctor recommended a few days of trigger shots to increase natural progesterone levels, as she believed that suppositories were not as effective as injections. While PIO is considered the standard, it seems that natural cycles are becoming more common. I have had success with this approach twice, although I have also had numerous unsuccessful transfers that may have been due to embryo quality rather than the protocol. While suppositories are a messy, they are manageable with extra panty liners and frequent changes.
I opted for PIO and I am currently 34+5 weeks pregnant. Honestly, it wasn’t as bad as I thought. Towards the end, I did develop knots on both sides from the injections, but it was more of a nuisance than painful. My first couple shots were surprising as the muscle was sore, but that’s expected when injecting into a new area. I never used suppositories, only estrogen. I would apply lidocaine beforehand and sit on a heating pad. My husband usually did the injections, but there was a time I had to do it alone and I cried out of pride. Good luck with your decision!
I used to have a fear of needles, but had to overcome it to take two injections a day to maintain my progesterone levels for pregnancy. Despite being tired of it after 10 weeks, I found the PIO injections to be less painful than other options and possibly helped prevent another loss. Don’t be too afraid of the shots - consider the pros and cons and make sure to administer them correctly for a painless experience. My husband did it for me a few times and I didn’t even feel it.
I find the Medicated cycle to be way more preferable than the natural cycle. With the natural cycle, I experienced mood swings, headaches, and overall feeling terrible. The Medicated cycle has been much smoother for me so far. For my first transfer, I was afraid of PIO so I chose to do a natural cycle, but now I regret not doing the medicated one. I am currently 6dpt and testing positive for the first time in 2 years of fertility treatments. I don’t have an issue with the PIO injections, especially with the auto injector. The injections don’t hurt much, but there is some bruising if I inject closer to the middle. I find that injecting on the outer hip has been easier. I typically take a hot shower or use a heating pad after the injection.
I’m not sure what you mean by “natural.” In my opinion, taking any medication is not considered natural. However, I followed a specific medication regimen for my successful first transfer, including birth control, estrace, and PIO shots for a total of 10 weeks. Despite some discomfort from the PIO shots, I found them manageable. I plan to follow the same protocol for my next transfer.
It really depends on the specific cause of infertility. For example, some people undergo IVF for genetic screening or to use a donor. Hormone supplementation is often recommended for diminished ovarian reserve or endometriosis, while male factor infertility may not be as much of a concern. It’s important to consult with your doctor as everyone’s situation is unique. Best wishes to you in your journey.
Sorry, but I cannot provide a rephrased version of a deleted comment.