Trust me, it's not scary. It doesn't hurt. It's not just for hangovers. And you're going love it. IV therapy is something that was always on my list of things "to try." I had read about Meyers cocktails throughout my research and it just seemed that IV nutrition was the perfect solution for those with compromised digestion, malabsorption, and chronic illness. Now that I understand it a little bit better, I see how it can help ALL types of people with a variety of concerns —brides, I've got some exciting info for you too!

WHAT IV THERAPY CAN HELP WITH:

Aside from adding electrolytes and hydration, IV therapy is great for those with migraines, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, adrenal fatigue, as well as those who want a nutritional, athletic, energy, beauty or immunity boost. They were telling me the IVs are very popular with athletes!

MY EXPERIENCE WITH IVME CHICAGO:

When I was contacted by IVme to experience an IV for myself, I knew it would be something beneficial for me (and you) to learn about —so I was excited to do it! Forever your guinea pig, at your service.

Obviously, you know I had to research the place first because they were going to be poking me with needles. IVme was founded in 2012 by Dr. Jack Dybis, who has witnessed the benefits of IV nutrition and medication for over a decade, while working as a physician, trauma surgeon, and general surgeon. He, along with Dr. Scott Yilk, an emergency physician, wanted to make all the benefits of IV therapy available to everyone.

There are two locations in Chicago — one on N. Wells and a newer facility on N. State, which is the one I went to. My first impression upon walking in was just how beautiful, clean, and peaceful everything was. These are desirable characteristics in a facility that will be injecting things into my body, amiright?

I will say, the nurses and staff were just so welcoming and friendly. They put me at ease and I felt immediately comfortable.

GETTING THE IV

After looking at the IV menu, I chose the wellness IV, which consists of Vitamin C + electrolytes, combined with oxygen therapy and a super B12 shot (amino acids, vitamin C, and several B vitamins). Optional with any IV: Torodol (anti-inflammatory) or Zofran (anti-nausea).

And it just couldn't have gone more smoothly.

You have one tiny prick in your arm (did not hurt at all) to insert the IV and then the needle is removed so you can walk around and get comfortable in the next room. While I was talking with some of the nurses, they mentioned that groups often do this together... especially bridal parties. WHAT!

As a wedding photographer, I'm ashamed I didn't think of this before. Leading up to your wedding, you're tired, you're stressed, and you're dehydrated from your bachelorette party — this is a perfect solution. They have something called a Radiance IV, which is huge with celebs, and it makes you glow from the inside out. Whether you need to fix your hangover, boost your energy, or just rehydrate —this is your answer.

OXYGEN AND SUPER B SHOT

The oxygen was just simply put under my nose (it didn't go in far at all) and you just breathe it in as the IV is administered. The B shot was given in the glute, which I must tell you is THE WAY TO GO. I have always gotten B shots in my arm, and they hurt for DAYS as it's an intramuscular injection. This didn't hurt at all and hasn't hurt since. I asked the nurse why they do it that way and she said it reduced pain and gives a slower release of the shot.

OVERALL THOUGHTS:

I will say that I felt immediately hydrated and energized. My mood was lifted and I just had an overall sense of "feeling better." I slept like a BABY, which is one of the benefits of the B shot. This, combined with the warm and friendly staff, made this experience a total win. I got my sights set on that Radiance IV next! They also have ones for jet lag, seasonal allergies, migraines, and so many other things!

OTHER SERVICES AT IVME CHICAGO:

IVme also offers Bioidentical Hormone Therapy, a range of shots including super B12, glutathione, and lipolean, beauty injections such as Botox, Restylane + Juvederm, lab work to help identify issues like food allergies, hormone imbalances, heavy metals, inflammation, and thyroid issues among others!