IVF- Day 24: It's All About Suppression

I am currently in the SUPPRESSION OF EGGS stage. During this stage I will have daily injections of a drug called Lupron.

What the heck is Lupron?

Lupron, a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist, is used to "turn off" ovulation. It will actually put my ovaries to sleep so the doctors have control over the cycle and it also reduces the risk of eggs being released from the ovaries before they can be retrieved.

Lupron acts by suppressing the pituitary gland (the gland which is normally responsible for triggering ovulation). However, before suppression occurs, Lupron will briefly stimulate the pituitary causing an increase in the pituitary hormones LH (luteinizing hormone) and FSH (follicle stimulating hormone). This is called the agonist or flare phase. If the Lupron is continued, it will eventually stop the pituitary from producing LH and FSH. This is known as the suppression phase. 

Administer: Subcutaneous injection: The medicine is delivered under the skin. I use a half-inch needle and place about an inch below my belly button.

Possible Side Effect: headaches, hot flashes, sweats, breast tenderness, constipation, dizziness, fatigue, moodiness, vaginal dryness, and irritation at injection site

CURRENTLY:

I am on Day 3 of the injections. I haven't felt any different. The only side effect I see is after the injection is complete it is a little red and itchy for a few minutes afterwards.