What is HCG?
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is commonly used in patients with low testosterone levels, especially in cases where the goal is to preserve or restore fertility. hCG mimics the action of luteinizing hormone (LH), a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates the testes to produce testosterone. In patients with low testosterone, either due to primary testicular failure or as a side effect of other testosterone replacement therapies (TRT), hCG can be used to stimulate the testes directly, maintaining or increasing endogenous testosterone production. This can help maintain sperm production, which may be impaired by conventional TRT.
For men using testosterone replacement therapy, hCG is often prescribed as an adjunct to prevent testicular atrophy and the associated decline in fertility. Exogenous testosterone can suppress the natural production of LH and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), leading to reduced testicular function. The use of hCG counteracts this suppression, ensuring that the testes continue to function and produce testosterone and sperm. This is particularly important for men who are looking to conceive, as standard TRT alone can reduce or eliminate sperm production.
HCG is also sometimes used in men with secondary hypogonadism, a condition in which low testosterone levels are caused by insufficient stimulation of the testes from the brain. In these cases, hCG therapy can help normalize testosterone levels by providing the necessary stimulus for testosterone production, potentially offering an alternative to traditional testosterone replacement. However, while hCG can be effective, its use must be carefully monitored to avoid side effects like testicular over-stimulation or increased estradiol levels, which can lead to symptoms such as gynecomastia (enlarged breast tissue in men).
If you feel as though you are struggling with symptoms associated with Low Testosterone, contact our clinic today. We offer tailor-made solutions and can help you get your health back on track
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