What is hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin)?
hCG is a peptide hormone that mimics luteinizing hormone (LH) during testosterone replacement therapy to preserve testicular size, sperm production, and fertility.
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone that acts similarly to luteinizing hormone (LH), the signal your body uses to tell the testes to produce testosterone and sperm. During testosterone replacement therapy, the body's natural LH signaling often decreases because external testosterone suppresses it. Without intervention, this can lead to testicular atrophy and reduced fertility.
hCG is used as an adjunct medication alongside TRT to maintain testicular function during treatment. By mimicking LH, hCG keeps the Leydig cells in the testes active, helping preserve testicular size and sperm production. This is particularly important for men who want to maintain or restore fertility while undergoing therapy.
Dosing and timing of hCG vary depending on the protocol. Some patients use it concurrently with testosterone, while others add it later if testicular shrinkage occurs. hCG is typically administered as an injection, often two to three times weekly. Working with a TRT provider to determine whether hCG is appropriate for your goals is essential, since it adds complexity and cost to treatment and is not universally recommended for all patients.