Injections

Be sure to have all the following items before you begin:

• One multiple-dose vial of Delestrogen or Estradiol Valerate.
• A 1cc/ml syringe with a drawing needle 18 G (pink)
• One long needle for administration. 22 1/ 2 (grey)
• Alcohol swabs.
• Sterile gauze.
• And Safety container.

Wash your hands with soap and water, dry thoroughly, and ensure you are working on a clean, flat surface. If using the vial for the first time, use your thumb to flip the protective plastic cap off the vial of Delestrogen or Estradiol Valerate.

1. Wipe the top of the vial (stopper) with an alcohol swab each time you use the Delestrogen or Estradiol Valerate. Allow the stopper to dry completely.
2. Remove the wrapping from the syringe and drawing needle.
3. Choose an injection site as directed by your healthcare provider. Common locations for intramuscular injections are right above the left or right buttock area.
4. Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and allow it to air dry. It would be best if you alternated injection sites each day.
5. Hold the syringe in your dominant hand like a pen or pencil. Use your other hand’s thumb and index finger to gently spread the skin at the injection site.
6. Insert the entire length of the needle in a quick, dart-like motion at a 90-degree angle straight in.
7. Hold the syringe barrel in your non-dominant hand and gently pull back on the plunger just a bit to check for blood. Do not pull forcefully back on the plunger.
8. If there is no blood, push the plunger in a slow, steady motion until all the medication is injected. If there is blood in the syringe, remove the needle, change the needle, and start the injection again at a different injection site. This does not happen very often and is not a reason for concern.
9. Once the injection is completed, gently withdraw the needle and apply pressure to the injection site with a sterile gauze pad. Dispose of the used needle and syringe in your safety container.