We appreciate the sensitive nature of this question.

Performing an injection of this sort on Shabbat or Yom Tov is fully acceptable. You should make every effort to prepare the syringe in advance (e.g., on Friday, so that it is ready for use when you need it on Shabbat). Take precautions to keep it sterile, and check whether it then needs refrigeration. You can use an alcohol wipe to disinfect the skin just prior to injection. If you don’t use wipes on Shabbat, alcohol can be poured on the injection site directly.

Given the distress and financial loss involved, there can be some leniency with regard to rabbinic prohibitions and travel as well. However, as distressing as infertility is, it is not considered pikuach nefesh (a life life-threatening situation). Therefore, one cannot permit activities prohibited by Torah law in order to facilitate conception. That means, for example, that travel would only be possible if pre-arranged with a non-Jewish driver and you would ideally only make one trip over a Shabbat or Yom Tov.

Determining what can and what cannot be permitted requires more detailed information. We recommend a personal consultation with a Nishmat Fertility Counselor, a Yoetzet Halacha who has completed additional specialized training in this area. Consultations are free and can take place in person, by phone, or via internet conference.

This response was updated on 24 June, 2021.