How to inject insulin?
Insulin is the primary treatment for diabetes, and we all know that. Tools such as insulin pens, insulin pumps, jet injections, and injections may intimidate many of the patients in the initial days. Where to use them? How to use them? Will I get them right? Are these the questions that worry you? Stop worrying; we are here to help you navigate these initial complexities.
Before receiving your first dose of insulin, your healthcare professional will teach you the basics of this treatment. It includes the correct way of administering the shots and the proper location where to inject insulin. Below is the list of injection sites that you need to take into account.
How to administer an insulin injection?
Where to Use Insulin Injections?
Abdomen – The abdomen is the most preferred location to administer insulin shots. The main reason is that insulin is quickly absorbed in this area. Additionally, the abdomen is easy to reach, and the administration is more straightforward than other parts of the body.
Note: When injecting the shot on your abdomen, make sure that you avoid areas near scars or skin blemishes. Choose a clean and smooth area to ensure effective, safe administration.
Upper arms – If you do not want to experience swelling after administering the shots, you can choose your upper arms. Administer insulin subcutaneously on the back of your arm, specifically between the elbow and shoulder.
A friendly tip from us. Ask someone to hold your arms or tuck your wrist between your thighs to avoid any movement of the arms during the administration to avoid getting hurt.
Thigh – Administering insulin shots on the thighs also promotes better insulin absorption. Simply inject insulin into the top and outer region of the thigh, between the leg and the knee.
Hips or buttocks – If you want a less painful insulin administration, administer insulin on your hips or buttocks. The process is easy, less painful, and also the most preferred.
A friendly tip again. Face your back towards the mirror to identify a clean location, free of scars and injuries.
Where is the best place to inject insulin? People with diabetes can make their own choice on where to administer their insulin treatment. However, based on surveys and expert opinions, the abdomen is likely to be the best location to administer the treatment.
It is also a matter of personal choice. For example, women may prefer hips and butts and avoid places like hands and thighs based on their dressing preferences. Therefore, it is also important to note that identifying your preferred site for injecting insulin is a matter of comfort and choice. However, do not inject on the same site consecutively as they may cause skin problems as well as make insulin treatment less efficient. If you are still in doubt, ask your doctor!
How to use Insulin injections:
In 99.9% of cases, your clinic will guide you in the initial days. However, for that 0.1% case of exception, this is what you would do.
Below are the steps containing the simplest ways how to inject insulin.:
- Wash your hands before injecting the insulin. If you are not at home, make sure you bring sanitizer or alcohol to clean your hands.
- Prepare all the supplies necessary for the insulin injection, such as needles, syringes, and alcohol swabs. If you are using an insulin pump, follow the guidelines specifically detailed for the device.
- Identify the site where you will be injecting the insulin.
- Sanitize the chosen site using an alcohol swab.
- Administer the insulin subcutaneously slowly and with confidence.
Where to inject insulin when pregnant
Insulin treatment is necessary during pregnancy, especially if gestational diabetes or prior diabetes diagnosis occurs. But where to inject insulin when pregnant?
The sites stated above also apply to pregnant women. They can administer the shot in their abdomen, thighs, upper arms, or lower back (hips or buttocks). However, because of pregnancy, certain precautions and measures are necessary to ensure a safe and effective treatment. That is why always consult your doctor while choosing a spot.
