Testosterone therapy is an essential part of many men’s health routines, and while most of our
patients prefer to have their injections done here at the practice for convenience, some choose
to do it at home. If you’re one of the guys who can’t make it into the office regularly due to
distance, time constraints, or other reasons, this guide is for you.
In this post, we’ll walk you through how to safely and effectively administer your testosterone
injections at home. It’s important to note that while it might seem a little daunting at first, with the
right preparation and a few key steps, you can do it confidently and comfortably.
What You’ll Need for At-Home Testosterone Injections
Before you start, make sure you have everything you need for the injection. Here’s a quick
checklist:
- Testosterone vial
- 18-gauge needle (for drawing the medication)
- 23-gauge needle (for injecting)
- 3cc syringe
- Alcohol pads
- A sharps container (for disposing of needles safely)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Work Area
The first thing to do is make sure your counter or work area is clean. You don’t need gloves, but
washing your hands thoroughly is essential. Keeping everything sterile is key to preventing
infection. - Clean the Vial
Take an alcohol pad and clean the rubber stopper on top of the testosterone vial. - Draw the Testosterone
Attach the 18-gauge needle to the syringe. This larger needle, also known as the “draw needle,”
will help you pull the medication out more easily. Pull back the syringe plunger to the amount
prescribed by your doctor (typically measured in milliliters or “cc”).
Hold the vial in one hand, insert the needle, and slowly draw out the testosterone. Be
patient—testosterone is a thicker liquid, so it might take a few moments to fill the syringe. - Switch to the Injection Needle
Once you’ve drawn the correct dose, remove the 18-gauge needle and replace it with the
23-gauge needle. This smaller needle will be used for the injection. Push a small amount of
medication out to ensure there are no air bubbles. - Prepare the Injection Site
There are two main areas where you can inject: the glute (upper buttock/hip area) or the thigh.
We recommend the glute because it has more muscle and tends to be less painful.
To find the best spot on your glute, imagine a triangle from your hip to the top of your leg bone.
Right below your belt line is the easiest and safest place to inject.
Clean the injection site with the alcohol pad, starting from the center and wiping outward to clear
any bacteria. - Perform the Injection
Hold the syringe like a dart and inject straight into the muscle at a 90-degree angle. There’s no
need to rush—testosterone is thick, so it will inject slowly. Be patient, and once you’ve injected
the full dose, remove the needle in one smooth motion.
If you see a little blood at the injection site, that’s normal. Apply pressure with a cotton ball, and
the bleeding should stop quickly. Avoid using alcohol on the site after the injection, as it can
prevent clotting. - Dispose of the Needle Safely
Immediately discard your needle and syringe into a sharps container. It’s crucial to handle
needles properly to avoid accidents and keep your household safe. When the container is full,
take it to your local pharmacy or health facility for proper disposal.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Massage the Injection Site: After the injection, gently massage the area to help the
testosterone absorb into the muscle. This can also prevent the formation of knots. - Do It with a Partner: If you’re not comfortable injecting yourself, your partner can help. Many
wives and partners enjoy assisting with this process, and it can be a good way to bond while
maintaining your health. - Be Consistent: Sticking to a regular injection schedule is important to keep your testosterone
levels balanced and maintain optimal health.
Stay Safe and Confident
Testosterone injections are a routine part of life for many men, and doing them at home can
save you time and hassle. However, safety is critical—be sure to clean your supplies and
dispose of your needles correctly to avoid any complications.
If at any point you feel unsure or uncomfortable, remember that you can always come into the
practice, and our team will gladly assist you. At Phoenix Men’s Health Center, we’re here to
support you every step of the way.
This guide aims to make your at-home testosterone injections as straightforward and
comfortable as possible. If you have any questions or need additional supplies, feel free to
contact us.
Stay healthy and take control of your well-being!
References:
- American Urological Association – Testosterone Therapy
- National Institutes of Health – Guide to Injectable Testosterone
- Mayo Clinic – Safety Tips for Injections
**This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before starting any treatment. Individual results may vary based on health conditions and other factors.
