Thinking about starting IVF? One big question is- how many injections will you need? This post brings you to the discussion in detail. Find out more about what each injection does & how many shots you might get in a cycle.

What's the IVF Injection?

IVF injections are hormonal medications that help your body prepare for fertility treatment. These are usually given daily to boost egg development and control the timing of ovulation. The shots are a core part of the IVF process and come in different types, depending on your treatment stage.

Most are done with small needles and are given in the belly or thigh. These injections aren’t just for stimulation; some help prepare the uterus to receive an embryo. They increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy through IVF treatment.

Are IVF Injections Essential?

IVF injections are not just a part of the treatment; they are the treatment. Your body typically produces one egg per month, but more eggs are needed in IVF to enhance the chances of a successful pregnancy. These injections stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs, facilitate egg release, and prepare the body for implantation.

Eggs may not grow or release at the right time without the right hormone levels. In short, the injections give doctors more control over your cycle. That is why they’re critical to care at any quality IVF clinic.

What Happens in an IVF Cycle?

The injection supports a different part of the cycle. It prepares your body for the next phase. On that note, here is the entire process occurring at the IVF clinic:

Stimulating the Ovary

You will need shots every day, sometimes one or two, for about 8 to 14 days. These help your ovaries make many eggs, not just one, like in a normal cycle.

Trigger Shot

This is a single injection when your eggs are mature. It tells your body it’s time for the final egg prep, which prepares the eggs for collection.

Egg Retrieval & Fertilisation

These do not use injections, but they’re the next steps: doctors collect the eggs, fertilise them in a lab, and grow embryos.

Embryo Transfer & Luteal Support

You might need more injections (often progesterone) to support the pregnancy’s first steps after the embryos go back into the uterus.

How Many Injections to Expect?

Most women need 1–2 injections per day for about 10 days:

So, you’re looking at about 20 to 40 injections per cycle. In rare cases, you could need around 90 shots. For most, though, it’s 20–30.

Each shot has its job:

These injections work together to give you the best chance at a healthy pregnancy.

Are There Any Side Effects of IVF Injections?

The thought of daily shots can be stressful, but most people handle them well. Side effects vary from person to person, and many feel only mild symptoms:

Bloating
Mood swings
Sore or bruised injection sites
Headaches
Breast tenderness
Fatigue
Nausea
Mild cramping
In rare cases, Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS)

Close contact with your care team helps you catch and manage side effects early during IVF treatment.

Getting through an IVF cycle is about patience and trust in the process. While IVF injections might sound like a lot, each one serves a real purpose: making your body ready for something big. Whether you’re at the beginning of your journey or already working with an IVF clinic, knowing what each shot does can help ease the fear of the unknown.

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Each injection brings you one step closer to the possibility of holding a precious life in your arms. If you have any concerns, whether it’s fear of needles or the cost, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your clinic. They are there to support you every step of the way.