Where to inject hCG
hCG injection sites under the skin, ways to rotate spots and label information when a label is available.
- spots usually chosen under the skin
- The belly, thigh, upper arm
- Clear of the belly button
- 2 inches
- A fresh spot for each dose
- Rotate
Where to inject hCG
The label for Novarel and Pregnyl says each is given into a muscle; follow your prescriber's instructions for where to give it.
- Belly: choose skin at least 2 inches from the belly button that you can pinch.
- On the front or outer part of the thigh, use the middle area between the knee and the hip.
- Upper arm, back side: another person can give the shot more easily.
Injecting hCG one step at a time
- For your hands, use soap and water; wipe the spot with an alcohol swab.
- Fill the syringe to the correct line; if you are unsure about the units, check with the calculator.
- Pinch a fold of skin, insert the needle at the angle your prescriber has shown you and push the plunger slowly.
- Remove the needle, apply light pressure with a cotton ball and place the syringe in a sharps container.
Changing your injection spots
Choose a different site for every dose, at least an inch away from the previous one. Changing spots lowers the chance of lumps or pits forming under your skin. Don't use skin that's sore, bruised, red or scarred.
For more about technique, see subq injection and the MedlinePlus shots under the skin guide.
Questions people often ask
Does the injection site matter for hCG?
For under-the-skin shots, people usually use the belly, thigh or upper arm. Choose one area and rotate spots inside it, unless your label or prescriber tells you otherwise.
Do you need to pinch your skin?
Check with your prescriber: the labels we list leave this decision to them. When using short insulin needles, many people pinch a fold of skin.