Iron injections?

Have any of you had to get iron injections?  If so, what is it like?  Do you go to the pharmacy and get the iron and then go to your doctor's office? The reason I ask is my iron was low at my 3 month blood work and my doctor said if it didn't raise significantly then I would have to consider injections.  If anyone can tell me what injections are like I'd be eternally grateful.

Also, I did find a prenatal vitamin with 35 mgs of iron in it from Well.ca - it's called WN Pharma Pre-Natal.  I will start taking that once my other multis run out any day now.

My iron is notoriously problematic (and has been forever). I was advised against injections as they are not necessarily effective (high failure rate), are painful, and can permanently stain your skin at the injection site (and spread).  I have gone for a few rounds of iron infusions (via IV at the hospital) and they are painless, stress-free and extremely effective. I would inquire about this option very soon. Don't wait for your iron to completely tank, it's a miserable and unhealthy existence.

Edited to add:  You may have to take a separate iron supplement - the dose in the multi may not be sufficient. I highly recommend FeraMax or Proferrin.

How does one inquire about the iron infusions? My iron is notoriously low (and was, long before surgery). I can't seem to keep up, no matter how hard I try.

You may need a referral to a hematologist, but I would start with a serious conversation with your family doctor. If you see another specialist, they are also able to refer you for infusions.

Karen I saw my doctor today over lunch and she wants me to see a hematologist to inquire about infusions.  Do you (or does anyone reading this) know of a good hematologist she could refer me to in Toronto?  My doctor suggested I check with you fine folks about this as she doesn't know of any hematologists personally -- otherwise she will send out a general referral to one of the hospitals on University.

Mine is pretty terrific, but he's in Mississauga. He does, however, work also out of Trillium Queensway in TO.  His name is Terry Kwan and his Mississauga office is right across from Trillium Mississauga at 101 Queensway.

Thanks Karen!  My doctor is going to call his office to see who he'd recommend in downtown Toronto so this is a big help!  You are the best!