What are the primary uses of HCG injections. How is HCG administered and dosed. What are the common and serious side effects of HCG. Who should avoid using HCG injections. How does HCG work in the body for fertility treatment.

Understanding HCG: Function and Medical Applications

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a hormone that plays a crucial role in various medical treatments. Its primary functions include stimulating the production of testosterone in males and promoting ovulation in females. Let’s explore the main medical applications of HCG injections:

• Treatment of undescended testicles in young boys
• Addressing delayed puberty in boys
• Fertility treatment in women
• Diagnosis of certain hormonal disorders

It’s important to note that while HCG has been marketed for weight loss, this use is not FDA-approved and can be potentially dangerous.

How does HCG work in the body?

HCG stimulates the production of sex hormones in both males and females. In males, it prompts the testes to produce testosterone, which is essential for normal sexual development. In females, HCG triggers ovulation by causing the release of an egg from the ovary.

Proper Administration and Dosage of HCG Injections

HCG is typically administered via intramuscular injection. The dosage and frequency of injections can vary significantly based on the specific medical condition being treated, the patient’s age, weight, and overall health status.

What is the typical dosage for HCG injections?

The dosage of HCG can vary widely depending on the condition being treated:

• For boys with undescended testicles: 500-4,000 IU, 2-3 times per week for several weeks
• For delayed puberty in boys: 1,000-5,000 IU, 2-3 times per week for several months
• For fertility treatment in women: 5,000-10,000 IU, given as a single dose after menotropins treatment

It’s crucial to follow the dosage prescribed by your healthcare provider and not to adjust it without medical supervision.

How should HCG injections be prepared and administered?

HCG injections are typically prepared by reconstituting a powder form with sterile water. The solution should be clear and free of particles. Healthcare professionals usually administer the injections, but in some cases, patients may be taught to self-administer at home. Proper technique and hygiene are essential to prevent complications.

Potential Side Effects of HCG Injections

Like all medications, HCG can cause side effects. While many people tolerate the treatment well, it’s important to be aware of potential adverse reactions.

What are the common side effects of HCG injections?

Common side effects of HCG injections include:

• Headache
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Depression
• Restlessness
• Pain or swelling at the injection site

These side effects are usually mild and resolve on their own. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider.

What serious side effects should patients be aware of?

While rare, HCG injections can cause more serious side effects that require immediate medical attention:

• Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome (OHSS) in women
• Blood clots
• Allergic reactions
• Breast enlargement in males
• Early onset of puberty in boys

Symptoms of OHSS can include severe abdominal pain, rapid weight gain, and difficulty breathing. If you experience these symptoms, seek medical help immediately.

Contraindications and Precautions for HCG Use

While HCG can be an effective treatment for various conditions, it’s not suitable for everyone. Certain health conditions and factors may increase the risk of adverse effects or reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.

Who should avoid using HCG injections?

HCG injections are contraindicated in the following situations:

• Prostate cancer or other hormone-sensitive cancers
• Precocious puberty
• Active thrombophlebitis or thromboembolic disorders
• Pregnancy (except in specific medical situations)
• Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding

Additionally, patients with a history of migraines, asthma, epilepsy, or cardiovascular disease should use HCG with caution and under close medical supervision.

HCG in Fertility Treatment: Mechanism and Effectiveness

HCG plays a crucial role in fertility treatments, particularly in assisted reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF).

How does HCG promote fertility in women?

In fertility treatments, HCG is used to trigger ovulation after the ovaries have been stimulated with other hormones. It mimics the natural surge of luteinizing hormone (LH) that occurs mid-cycle, causing the final maturation and release of the egg.

The timing of the HCG injection is critical in fertility treatments. It’s typically administered about 36 hours before the planned egg retrieval in IVF procedures, ensuring that the eggs are at the optimal stage of maturity for fertilization.

What is the success rate of HCG in fertility treatments?

The success rate of fertility treatments using HCG varies depending on numerous factors, including:

• The woman’s age
• The underlying cause of infertility
• The overall health of both partners
• The specific fertility treatment protocol used

On average, IVF cycles using HCG for ovulation triggering have success rates ranging from 20% to 35% per cycle, with higher rates for younger women and those using donor eggs.

Monitoring and Follow-up During HCG Treatment

Close medical supervision is essential during HCG treatment to ensure its effectiveness and minimize the risk of complications.

What tests are typically performed during HCG treatment?

Depending on the reason for HCG use, various tests may be performed:

• Blood hormone level tests
• Ultrasound scans (for fertility treatments)
• Physical examinations
• Pregnancy tests (in fertility treatments)

These tests help healthcare providers adjust the dosage if necessary and monitor for any potential side effects or complications.

How often should patients follow up with their healthcare provider?

The frequency of follow-up appointments can vary based on the specific treatment protocol and individual patient needs. Typically, patients undergoing fertility treatments may need to visit their healthcare provider several times a week during the treatment cycle. For other uses of HCG, follow-up appointments might be scheduled weekly or bi-weekly.

HCG and Weight Loss: Separating Fact from Fiction

Despite its popularity in some circles, HCG is not approved for weight loss by regulatory agencies like the FDA. Let’s examine the claims and the scientific evidence.

Why is HCG sometimes promoted for weight loss?

Proponents of HCG for weight loss claim that it can:

• Suppress appetite
• Boost metabolism
• Promote fat loss while preserving muscle mass

These claims are often associated with very low-calorie diets (500 calories per day), which can indeed lead to rapid weight loss.

What does scientific research say about HCG for weight loss?

Multiple scientific studies have failed to find any benefit of HCG injections for weight loss beyond what can be achieved with a very low-calorie diet alone. The weight loss observed in HCG diet programs is likely due to the extreme calorie restriction rather than any effect of the hormone.

Furthermore, such extreme calorie restriction can be dangerous, potentially leading to:

• Nutritional deficiencies
• Electrolyte imbalances
• Gallstone formation
• Muscle loss

For these reasons, medical authorities strongly advise against using HCG for weight loss.

Long-term Effects and Considerations of HCG Use

While HCG can be an effective treatment for certain medical conditions, it’s important to consider the potential long-term effects, especially with prolonged use.

Are there any long-term risks associated with HCG use?

Long-term use of HCG, particularly in high doses or for unapproved purposes, may potentially lead to:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Increased risk of certain cancers (theoretical risk based on its effects on hormone levels)
• Cardiovascular complications
• Psychological effects due to hormonal fluctuations

It’s crucial to note that when used as prescribed for approved medical conditions, the benefits of HCG typically outweigh these potential risks. However, long-term safety data for some uses is limited.

How does HCG affect fertility in the long term?

For women undergoing fertility treatments, HCG use is generally short-term and doesn’t appear to have significant long-term effects on fertility. In fact, successful treatment can lead to pregnancy and childbirth.

In men, long-term use of HCG for conditions like hypogonadism may actually help maintain fertility by stimulating the testes to produce sperm. However, excessive use could potentially lead to desensitization of the testes to hormonal stimulation.

Legal and Regulatory Status of HCG

The legal and regulatory status of HCG can vary depending on its intended use and the country in question. Understanding these regulations is crucial for both healthcare providers and patients.

What is the regulatory status of HCG in different countries?

In the United States, HCG is approved by the FDA for specific medical uses, including:

• Treatment of female infertility
• Treatment of some hormonal issues in males

It is not approved for weight loss or any cosmetic purposes. The FDA has issued warnings against over-the-counter HCG products marketed for weight loss.

In the European Union, HCG is also approved for medical use in fertility treatments and certain hormonal disorders. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has similar restrictions on its use for weight loss.

How can patients ensure they’re obtaining legitimate HCG?

To ensure the safety and legitimacy of HCG treatments, patients should:

• Only obtain HCG through a licensed healthcare provider
• Use HCG only for its approved medical purposes
• Be wary of online sellers or clinics offering HCG for weight loss
• Check that the product is from a reputable pharmaceutical manufacturer

Using unapproved or illegally obtained HCG can pose serious health risks and legal consequences.

Alternative Treatments and Therapies

While HCG is effective for certain conditions, there are alternative treatments available for some of its uses. It’s important to discuss all options with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.

What are some alternatives to HCG for fertility treatment?

Alternative fertility treatments may include:

• Clomiphene citrate (Clomid) for ovulation induction
• Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists or antagonists
• Recombinant FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone)
• Intrauterine insemination (IUI)
• In vitro fertilization (IVF) without HCG triggering

The choice of treatment depends on the specific cause of infertility and individual patient factors.

Are there safer alternatives for those seeking weight loss?

For individuals looking to lose weight, safer and more effective alternatives to HCG include:

• Balanced, calorie-controlled diet
• Regular physical activity
• Behavior modification and lifestyle changes
• FDA-approved weight loss medications (under medical supervision)
• Bariatric surgery for severe obesity (in appropriate cases)

These methods are supported by scientific evidence and are recommended by medical professionals for safe and sustainable weight loss.

Future Directions in HCG Research and Development

As medical science advances, research into HCG continues to explore its potential applications and improve its use in existing treatments.

What new applications of HCG are being researched?

Current areas of HCG research include:

• Improved protocols for fertility treatments to reduce the risk of OHSS
• Potential use in certain types of cancer treatment
• Development of more targeted and efficient HCG analogues
• Investigation of HCG’s role in early pregnancy and potential therapeutic applications

These research directions aim to expand our understanding of HCG’s mechanisms and potentially broaden its therapeutic applications.

How might future developments improve HCG treatments?

Future advancements in HCG treatments may include:

• More personalized dosing protocols based on genetic and hormonal profiles
• Development of alternative delivery methods (e.g., subcutaneous injections or nasal sprays)
• Combination therapies that enhance HCG’s effectiveness while minimizing side effects
• Improved monitoring techniques to optimize treatment outcomes

These developments could potentially make HCG treatments more effective, safer, and more accessible to patients who need them.

In conclusion, HCG is a powerful hormone with significant medical applications, particularly in the fields of fertility and endocrinology. While it can be highly effective when used appropriately under medical supervision, it’s crucial to be aware of its potential side effects and limitations. As research continues, our understanding and use of HCG in medical treatments are likely to evolve, potentially offering new hope for patients with various hormonal and reproductive health issues.

HCG Intramuscular: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

This medication is a hormone used in boys (before puberty) to cause the normal dropping of the testicles into the scrotum. It is also used in certain boys to help with normal sexual development. It works by causing the testes to release male sex hormones (such as testosterone).This medication is also used in women to treat fertility problems. It is given after finishing another medication (menotropins) to cause the release of an egg (ovulation). It should not be used in women whose ovaries no longer make eggs properly (primary ovarian failure).This medication has not been shown to be effective for weight loss and should not be used for this purpose due to risk of serious side effects.

How to use HCG Solution, Reconstituted (Recon Soln)

This medication is given by injection into a muscle, usually by a health care professional.

The dosage is based on your age, weight, medical condition, and response to treatment.

For boys, use this medication usually 3 times a week or as directed by your doctor. For women, use this medication usually for 1 dose after finishing your menotropins treatment.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, mark the day(s) on the calendar when you need to receive the medication.

If you are using this medication at home, learn all preparation and usage instructions from your health care professional. Before using, check this product visually for particles or discoloration. If either is present, do not use the liquid. Inject this medication into a muscle as directed by your doctor. Learn how to store and discard needles and medical supplies safely.

Side Effects

Headache, restlessness, tiredness, or pain at injection site may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: swelling of the hands/ankles/feet, mental/mood changes (such as depression, irritability), signs of early puberty in boys (such as facial/pubic hair, voice change, acne), pain/swelling of the breast (in boys), unusual vaginal bleeding (women).

This medication may cause a condition known as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). This condition may occur during or after treatment. Rarely, serious OHSS causes fluid to suddenly build up in the stomach, chest, and heart area. Get medical help right away if you develop the following side effects: severe pain or swelling in the lower abdominal (pelvic) area, severe nausea/vomiting, sudden/rapid weight gain, or decreased urination.

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: chest/jaw/left arm pain, sudden severe headache, confusion, weakness on one side of the body, trouble speaking, sudden vision changes, pain/redness/swelling in the legs.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing, shortness of breath.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: early puberty (in boys), blood clots, heart disease (such as chest pain, heart attack), high blood pressure, kidney disease, liver disease, lung problems (such as asthma), migraine, seizure disorder, stroke, unusual vaginal bleeding, problems of the uterus, unexplained ovarian cyst/enlargement, certain type of fertility problem (primary ovarian failure), thyroid problem, adrenal gland problem, cancer of the reproductive organs (breast, uterus, ovary, prostate), brain tumor.

This medication should not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor right away.

When this medication is used in women to treat infertility, it may cause multiple births (such as twins, triplets).

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

A product that may interact with this drug is: gonadorelin.

This medication may interfere with certain lab tests (including luteinizing hormone-LH/follicle stimulating hormone-FSH levels), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

Does HCG Solution, Reconstituted (Recon Soln) interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Do not share this medication with others.

If you miss a dose, ask your doctor or pharmacist right away for a new dosing schedule.

Store the vials of powder at room temperature away from light and moisture. Store the mixed medication in the refrigerator. Write the date when the medication was mixed on the vial. The mixed medication must be used within 1 to 2 months, depending on the product. Check the product package for the storage time for your product. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

Selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First Databank, Inc. This copyrighted material has been downloaded from a licensed data provider and is not for distribution, except as may be authorized by the applicable terms of use.

CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.

Testosterone, Weight Loss, Side Effects & More

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved hCG injections to treat specific medical conditions. In females assigned at birth (FAABs), they can help treat infertility. In males assigned at birth (MAABs), they can treat a type of hypogonadism.

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is sometimes called “the pregnancy hormone” because of its important role in maintaining pregnancy.

Pregnancy tests check hCG levels in the urine or blood to determine if a person is pregnant or not.

Read on to learn how it can be used for MAABs.

There are a variety of reasons why a doctor might prescribe hCG to a man.

To help address hypogonadism

In men, doctors prescribe hCG to help address the symptoms of hypogonadism, such as low testosterone and infertility. hCG can help the body increase its production of testosterone and sperm, which can help reduce infertility.

To improve testosterone deficiency

Injections of hCG are also sometimes used as an alternative to testosterone products in MAABs with testosterone deficiency.

Testosterone deficiency is defined as testosterone blood levels less than 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) along with symptoms of low testosterone. These include:

• fatigue
• stress
• a low sex drive
• depressed mood

According to the American Urological Association, hCG is appropriate for those MAABs with testosterone deficiency who also desire to maintain fertility.

Testosterone products boost levels of the hormone in the body but can have the side effects of shrinking the gonads, altering sexual function, and causing infertility.

hCG can help increase:

• gonad size
• testosterone levels
• fertility

Some doctors believe that using testosterone along with hCG may help improve symptoms of testosterone deficiency while preventing some of testosterone’s side effects.

To improve sexual function

hCG may also help improve sexual function in MAABs who don’t experience improvement while on testosterone.

To reverse steroid side effects

Bodybuilders who take anabolic steroids such as testosterone also sometimes use hCG to help prevent or reverse some of the side effects steroids cause, such as gonad shrinkage and infertility.

In men, hCG acts like luteinizing hormone (LH). LH stimulates Leydig cells in the testicles, which results in the production of testosterone.

LH also stimulates production of sperm within structures in the testicles called seminiferous tubules.

As hCG stimulates the testicles to produce testosterone and sperm, the testicles grow in size over time.

Very little clinical research has evaluated hCG in MAABs with low testosterone levels.

In a small 2002 study of older MAABs with partial hypogonadism, hCG increased testosterone levels compared to a placebo control. However, hCG had no effect on sexual function.

In one 2005 study, MAABs taking testosterone along with hCG were able to maintain testosterone production in the testicles.

In a 2013 study, MAABs taking testosterone along with hCG were able to maintain adequate sperm production.

According to a 2018 study, hCG can help MAABs with hypogonadism preserve their fertility, whether it’s used alone or in combination with testosterone. It can help restore sperm production as well.

A small 2019 study concluded that hCG was safe and effective for MAABs who experience the symptoms of hypogonadism but have testosterone levels above 300 ng/dL. Testosterone levels above 300 ng/dL are widely considered normal.

For men, the most common side effects of hCG injections include:

• gynecomastia, or the growth of male breasts
• pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site
• stomach pain
• nausea
• vomiting

In rare cases, people taking hCG have developed blood clots. Although also rare, allergic reactions can occur, including mild skin rashes and severe anaphylactic reactions.

hCG is sometimes used for weight loss. Several products are available that are marketed as over-the-counter (OTC) homeopathic hCG products for weight loss.

However, the FDA has warned that it hasn’t approved hCG products for the purpose of weight loss. Any OTC products claiming to contain hCG aren’t legally authorized, either.

The FDA has also advised consumers that there’s no substantial evidence that hCG works for weight loss.

These products are often used as part of an “hCG diet. ” This typically involves taking hCG supplements while following a low calorie diet of 500 calories per day.

Although this low calorie diet can help reduce weight, there’s no evidence that using hCG products helps.

Additionally, this extremely low calorie diet can be unsafe for many people. Possible side effects of extremely restrictive diets include:

• gallstones
• electrolyte imbalances
• arrhythmias

When used appropriately with the guidance of your doctor, hCG is safe.

It shouldn’t be used by MAABs with prostate cancer, certain brain cancers, or uncontrolled thyroid disease.

Talk with your doctor about other medical conditions you may have before using hCG.

hCG is produced from hamster ovary cells. People with an allergy to hamster protein shouldn’t take hCG.

You should avoid all OTC hCG products, since none of them have been FDA approved. The FDA warns against using these products or following the hCG diet.

hCG is an FDA-approved medication for treating specific conditions in both FAABs and men.

In men, it seems to have an important role as an alternative to testosterone for boosting testosterone levels and maintaining fertility.

Some doctors are prescribing it in conjunction with testosterone products for testosterone deficiency to help maintain fertility and sexual function.

Some people are also using hCG for weight loss, often as a component of the hCG diet. However, there’s no reliable evidence that hCG works for this purpose. Due to concerns about its safety, it should be avoided as a weight loss aid.

HCG injection – indications and contraindications

Currently, ovulation stimulation by hCG injection is in demand. The procedure is recommended for women who do not have high-quality egg maturation. HCG injection is an injection, the main component of which is human chorionic gonadotropin. Undoubtedly, after an injection of hCG, the likelihood of conception increases. Why do I need to stimulate ovulation with an injection of hCG? The purpose of the technique is to create eggs in the female body that are capable of fertilization.

The level of human chorionic gonadotropin increases from the moment of engraftment of the embryo in the uterus. Initially, hCG is produced by the membranes of the chorion, then the placenta performs this function. With insufficient production of the hormone, its amount is compensated artificially. An hCG injection is given to women who want to get pregnant. The injection normalizes ovulation and increases the hormonal activity of the corpus luteum.

Ovulation

The menstrual cycle is divided into two phases. In the first phase, menstrual bleeding occurs, the dominant follicle matures, and the egg is released. In the second phase, the uterus prepares to receive the embryo, regardless of whether fertilization has taken place or not. The endometrium thickens. Having joined with the sperm, the egg travels to the uterus.

If pregnancy does not occur, the concentration of estrogen and progesterone decreases. The inner layer of the uterus exfoliates, menstruation occurs. The ovulation phase is located between the follicle-stimulating period and the luteinizing stage. It takes forty-eight hours in duration. The onset of ovulation occurs on the fourteenth day of the cycle (cycle of 28 days).

Stimulation of ovulation

Lack of ovulation is the main problem of infertility. Violation of the natural process of ovulation is caused by a disorder of hormonal regulation, inflammation of the reproductive organs, dysfunction of the adrenal cortex, thyroid gland, and stress. To correct the level of hormones, an injection of hCG is prescribed. For the simultaneous maturation of several eggs, ovulation is stimulated by an injection of hCG. The injection increases the chances of fertilization and is actively used in in vitro fertilization.

HCG injection

HCG injection is used to restore ovulation. The main indication for the introduction of artificial chorionic gonadotropin is infertility.

Indication for injection:

• Corpus luteum deficiency
• Cause of infertility – anovulation
• Stable miscarriage
• Threat of spontaneous abortion

HCG injection. Contraindications:

• “Young” menopause
• Breastfeeding
• Malignant neoplasm of pituitary gland
• Ovarian cancer
• Tubal obstruction
• Thyroid dysfunction
• Drug resistance

When an HCG injection is prescribed

In case of repeated miscarriages, an HCG injection is prescribed after confirming the pregnancy. In such cases, the injection is carried out at the eighth week. Therapy with artificial gonadotropin is continued for forty to forty-five days. With the danger of miscarriage – up to the fourteenth week inclusive.

If a woman is planning a pregnancy, an HCG injection is given after the absolute maturity of the follicles has been reached. The injection is performed once. The egg after the hCG injection leaves the follicle in twenty-four to thirty-six hours.

Pregnancy test after hCG injection

Usually, after the hCG injection, ovulation occurs in a day. After making sure that the egg is released, a reinforcing therapy is prescribed: progesterone preparations. Next, the time of sexual intercourse is calculated, the result of which will be the reunion of the sperm with the egg. With ideal indicators of spermogram, the action is carried out every other day. If the stimulation of ovulation with an hCG injection ends successfully, a long-awaited pregnancy occurs.

A pregnancy test should be performed when the artificial hCG has completely “left” the body – after two weeks. If you do not follow the recommendations, then pregnancy tests after an hCG injection will be incorrect.

Stimulation of ovulation with an injection of hCG increases the chances of conception. However, there are contraindications to the procedure:

• Inflammation of the ovaries
• Serious hormonal disorders
• Age restrictions
• Allergic reactions

Stimulation of ovulation with an injection of hCG should be carried out under the strict supervision of a physician. Illiterate therapy is the cause of trouble in the female body.

Choosing the right clinic is the first step towards achieving your goal. Qualified medical assistance, diagnostic laboratory, psychological support, the latest equipment – an incomplete range of services offered by the “IVF Center” in Kursk.

HCG injection. Pregnancy after an injection of hCG

Unfortunately, many couples of reproductive age face the problem of infertility these days. As you know, infertility is a consequence of any disease that is currently present in the body or was previously. Therefore, in order to eliminate infertility, a couple must undergo a series of examinations to help identify the cause of this condition. Based on the results of the examination, the attending physician will prescribe measures to eliminate infertility, which include stimulation of ovulation with an injection of hCG.

When ovulation stimulation is indicated

Ovulation stimulation is one of the methods to eliminate infertility. It can be shown with regular anovulatory cycles, as well as when performing assisted reproductive technologies.

Ovulation stimulation can be performed for conception in a natural way, with artificial insemination, as well as during in vitro fertilization.
Before ovulation stimulation, a couple must be prescribed examinations to identify the causes of infertility. Since problems with the reproductive system can affect both women and men, both partners are examined. During the diagnosis, the causes of anovulatory cycles can be identified, which are sufficient to eliminate to restore natural ovulation (endocrine system disorders, inflammatory or infectious diseases, etc.). It is also important to check the “capacity” of male germ cells. Sometimes pregnancy may not occur not only because of anovulatory cycles, but also due to impaired spermatogenesis.

To detect anovulation, a woman will be prescribed the following tests over several cycles:

• measurement of basal body temperature;
• ultrasound examinations;
• blood tests for hormone levels.

Without normalization of the level of prolactin, thyroid hormones, and male sex hormones, ovulation stimulation is not carried out.

Stimulation of ovulation with an injection of hCG

Stimulation of ovulation begins with nonsteroidal antiestrogen or gonadotropic drugs. The choice of drug will depend on the method of eliminating infertility, during which stimulation occurs. On average, drugs are prescribed for up to 12 days. This will depend on the response of the ovaries to the ongoing therapy.
During the period of ovulation stimulation, to control the growth of follicles, a woman will undergo ultrasound every 3-4 days until the follicles reach the required size of 18-20 mm.

Next, the patient is given an injection of hCG. HCG completes the process of maturation of follicles and “turns on” the mechanisms of ovulation. Also, hCG prevents the regression of follicles and the appearance of follicular cysts, which can be formed due to the non-disclosure of a mature follicle.

After an injection of hCG, ovulation occurs within 24-36 hours. Next, the patient is assigned a schedule of sexual intercourse (in case of natural fertilization), insemination or the date of ovarian puncture (during IVF).

Artificial insemination

Artificial insemination is the intrauterine introduction of partner or donor spermatozoa to effect a pregnancy. Artificial insemination, in most cases, is carried out for women with immunological infertility, when antisperm antibodies that destroy spermatozoa are present in the secret of the cervical canal. Also, artificial insemination can be performed on women without a husband or partner who decide to have a child.
The artificial insemination procedure can be carried out with ovulation stimulation and in the natural cycle.

In vitro fertilization

During in vitro fertilization, ovulation is stimulated to obtain the maximum number of mature eggs. This process is called superovulation. There are several methods (protocols) for IVF. However, any of them use gonadotropic drugs that stimulate the growth of follicles and eggs, as well as an injection of hCG. Methods for IVF will differ in duration and dosage of drugs. The choice of the necessary IVF protocol is carried out by the attending physician based on the patient’s health status.

A long IVF protocol begins with the introduction of pituitary blockers – gonadotropin-releasing hormone preparations. This is necessary to control the natural hormonal background of a woman.

From the 3rd-5th day of the menstrual cycle, gonadotropic drugs are prescribed to stimulate the growth of follicles. These drugs will contain synthetic analogues of follicle-stimulating hormone, which is normally produced by the pituitary gland. Additionally, luteinizing hormone may be prescribed, which is necessary to prevent premature ovulation.

When the follicles are mature (determined by ultrasound), the woman is given an injection of hCG. After an injection of hCG, an ovarian puncture is performed approximately 36 hours later (more precise terms are determined by the attending physician in each individual case). Ovarian puncture is a minimally invasive procedure that collects eggs. During IVF, it is important to obtain the eggs before they are directly released into the abdominal cavity, otherwise it is almost impossible to collect them in the future and the stimulation will have to be repeated again.
The procedure is carried out under general anesthesia, so you can’t eat (6-8 hours before) and drink (2 hours before). During the puncture, a special needle is inserted into the ovaries through the vagina under the control of ultrasound. When the needle reaches the mature follicle, the eggs are taken with the follicular fluid. The manipulation is repeated with each mature follicle.

For further IVF, a man must provide sperm that was obtained on the day of the puncture. If donor sperm is used, it must be ready for use on the same day.

Selected oocytes and specially processed ejaculate are placed on the medium in a petri dish for fertilization. The environment in the Petri dish is as close as possible in composition to the natural environment of the fallopian tubes, where conception should take place. After fertilization, the highest quality zygotes continue to be cultured until they reach the blastocyst stage. Cultivation lasts 3-5 days.
Next, the embryos are transplanted into the woman’s uterus for further implantation and development. Usually 1-2 embryos are transplanted, which increases the likelihood of a positive outcome of IVF.

In Kaliningrad, IVF and other methods of reproductive technology can be done at the IVF Center clinic, whose specialists successfully eliminate infertility of any etiology.

Pregnancy after hCG injection

In order to check whether pregnancy has occurred, after the hCG injection, appropriate tests are prescribed after a certain time:

• 2-3 weeks from ovulation – with natural fertilization;
• 2 weeks from sperm injection – with artificial insemination;
• 14 days – after embryo transfer after IVF.

You can find out if pregnancy has occurred with the help of a “home” cavity test, which reacts to an increase in the content of hCG in the urine. However, the most informative is the analysis of the level of hCG in the blood, which is monitored over time. With the help of a blood test for the level of hCG, you can determine the quality of the course of pregnancy, its fertility, and also identify the threat of ectopic pregnancy or miscarriage.

During pregnancy, hCG levels will continually increase tens of thousands of times, reaching a maximum peak of approximately 200,000 mIU/mL by the 12th week. Further, hCG will gradually subside, while its level will still be high compared to the norms for a non-pregnant woman (0-25 mIU / ml). A sharp decrease in the level of hCG in the first trimester may signal a threat of miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, or pregnancy fading.

In a multiple pregnancy, the level of hCG will increase depending on the number of fetuses: two times for twins, three times for triplets, etc.

HCG injections during pregnancy

In some cases, with a history of threatened miscarriage or after IVF, hCG tablets or injections are prescribed to support pregnancy directly during pregnancy (in the first trimester).