HUMAN CHORIONIC GONADOTROPHIN (HCG)
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin is a type of hormone found in small amounts in both men and women. It is often associated with women because it is produced in large amounts during pregnancy. It is now known to have many positive effects on the body and can be used in medicine in various capacities. It is often used in fertility therapy, as a weight loss aide, and by those who have testosterone production issues.
Alternative form of testosterone replacement
Hypogonadism or low testosterone is a condition characterized by the decreased functioning of the testes. Men with secondary hypogonadism usually have low levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). These two hormones are produced by the pituitary gland and are responsible for sperm and testosterone production. LH signals certain cells in the testes to produce testosterone. When HCG is injected, the body treats it like LH and begins to stimulate the production of testosterone naturally. HCG is often used with Clomid as an alternative therapy to increase natural testosterone production in men while restoring normal function of the testicles, preserving sperm production and preventing testicular shrinkage.
Addition to testosterone replacement
HCG is particularly effective when used in conjunction with testosterone replacement. It keeps the body from shutting down or diminishing its natural production of testosterone by the testes. Using both medications together increases HRT success without the loss of natural testosterone function or testicular atrophy. This is especially important for men who are being treated for a testosterone deficiency and are trying to conceive or plan to conceive in the future. The addition of HCG will promote healthy function of the testes by producing enough intra-testicular testosterone to maintain spermatogenesis.
Increasing male fertility
Fertility in men requires normal functioning of the hypothalamus, pituitary and the testes. Men need certain hormones in order for them to produce enough healthy sperm to fertilize an egg. A number of things can decrease sperm count and motility, some of which include:
- Hormone imbalances
- Certain medications
- Drug and alcohol use
- Stress
- Tobacco
- Obesity
- Heavy metal exposure
- Food and environmental toxins
HCG works by stimulating Leydic cells to make testosterone and other androgens. This action is necessary to promote and support sperm production.
Sperm count and motility tests are used to determine if HCG can be used as a gonadotrophin treatment to stimulate the production of sperm. The goal of using HCG as a male fertility aid is to help increase a low sperm count to regain fertility and conceive through natural intercourse.