HCG is a hormone that is naturally generated by the female placenta during a normal pregnancy. Its action closely resembles that of luteinizing hormone (LH), which is known to trigger ovulation. When used in conjunction with other medications, HCG is particularly effective in assisting female patients in becoming pregnant. This medication can also benefit male patients experiencing fertility issues, as treatment with it often leads to an increased production of testosterone.
HCG is a commonly prescribed medication for female patients to facilitate various reproductive processes, including: induction of ovulation in cases of subfertility typically caused by problems with follicle maturation or anovulation, luteal phase support, and preparation of follicles for puncture in controlled ovarian hyperstimulation programs, which is often associated with assisted reproductive techniques.
Male patients are also frequently prescribed HCG due to its ability to treat hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Some patients suffering from idiopathic dysspermias have shown positive responses to treatment with this medication. It is also used for cases of delayed puberty linked to insufficient function of the gonadotropic pituitary glands and for cryptorchidism that is not caused by an abnormal anatomical obstruction.
HCG is a well-known medication for addressing infertility in both male and female patients. Additionally, it has other uses for treating or preventing certain medical conditions that are not detailed here.
For female patients seeking treatment with HCG: those undergoing medically assisted reproduction, particularly in vitro fertilization, often face challenges related to tubal abnormalities. Following treatment with this medication, they may be at an increased risk of ectopic pregnancies. Therefore, it is essential to confirm early via ultrasound whether the pregnancy is intrauterine. Pregnancies resulting from this treatment are at a higher risk of multiples. Female patients with a history of thrombosis, severe obesity, or thrombophilia should avoid this medication due to an elevated risk of arterial or venous thromboembolic events during or after HCG treatment. Women treated with this drug are generally at a higher susceptibility to pregnancy loss.