HCG Therapy

What Is HCG?

Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a hormone that mimics luteinizing hormone (LH) in the body. When used alongside TRT, it stimulates the testes to continue producing testosterone and sperm naturally — even while receiving exogenous testosterone.

HCG has become an essential component of modern TRT protocols, particularly for men who want to preserve fertility or prevent testicular atrophy.

Why HCG with TRT?

When you take exogenous testosterone, your body's feedback loop tells the pituitary gland to stop sending LH and FSH signals to the testes. This causes:

• Testicular atrophy — Testes shrink from disuse (cosmetically undesirable)
• Sperm production stops — Can cause infertility while on TRT
• Reduced intratesticular testosterone — The testes need their own T production for proper function
• Potential pregnenolone/DHEA decline — Testes produce other important hormones beyond testosterone

HCG keeps the testes "online" by simulating the signal they normally receive from the brain.

Typical HCG Protocol

• Dose: 250-500 IU, 2-3 times per week
• Administration: Subcutaneous injection (small insulin needle)
• Timing: Can be injected on the same days as testosterone or alternating days
• Storage: Must be refrigerated after reconstitution

Some clinics prescribe HCG from day one of TRT. Others add it later if testicular atrophy or fertility concerns arise.

Benefits of Adding HCG

• Maintains testicular size and appearance
• Preserves fertility potential (sperm production)
• Supports natural hormone pathways (pregnenolone, DHEA)
• May improve mood and well-being beyond TRT alone
• Easier recovery if TRT is ever discontinued

HCG Availability

Note: In 2020, the FDA reclassified HCG as a biologic, which affected availability from compounding pharmacies. Some clinics have switched to alternatives like Gonadorelin or Enclomiphene for similar purposes. Ask your clinic about their current protocol.

Find a TRT clinic to discuss HCG or fertility-preserving options.