Hormonal Health

HCG

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin

The hormone that preserves fertility on TRT

HCG mimics luteinizing hormone, stimulating testosterone production and maintaining testicular function. Critical for men on TRT who want to preserve fertility.

HCG illustration

Admin routes

Subcutaneous, Intramuscular

Popularity

Medium

Side effects

Monitor closely

Vendors

1 rated

Key benefits

1Maintains testicular function during TRT
2Preserves fertility and spermatogenesis
3Supports natural testosterone production
4FDA-approved with decades of clinical use
5Well-understood safety profile
6Essential component of responsible TRT protocols

What to expect

1
Week 1–2

Testicular fullness maintained/restored on TRT

2
Week 2–4

Improved mood and energy (via testosterone production)

3
Week 4–8

Spermatogenesis maintained; fertility preserved

4
Ongoing

Continuous use alongside TRT for sustained benefits

Based on community reports and published research. Individual results vary significantly.

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Dosing protocols

TRT support

Dose

250 IU

Frequency

Three times per week

Duration

Ongoing with TRT

Fertility preservation

Dose

500 IU

Frequency

Three times per week

Duration

8–12 weeks

PCT (post-cycle therapy)

Dose

1000–2000 IU

Frequency

Every other day

Duration

2–3 weeks

Dosing information is sourced from published research and community protocols. This is not a recommendation. Consult a healthcare professional.

Research status|Extensive clinical data - FDA-approved for multiple indications

Overview

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a glycoprotein hormone naturally produced during pregnancy. In men, it mimics luteinizing hormone (LH), directly stimulating Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone and maintain spermatogenesis. It is the most commonly co-prescribed peptide alongside testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) to prevent testicular atrophy and preserve fertility.

How it works

HCG binds to LH/CG receptors on Leydig cells, activating cAMP signalling and stimulating testosterone biosynthesis. In women, it triggers ovulation and supports corpus luteum function. In men on TRT (where exogenous testosterone suppresses natural LH production), HCG maintains intratesticular testosterone levels needed for spermatogenesis.

Side effects

Injection site irritation
mildCommon
Mood changes or irritability
mildUncommon
Gynecomastia (via aromatisation)
moderateUncommon
Blood clot risk at very high doses
seriousRare

Research history

1920s

HCG first isolated from the urine of pregnant women

1960s

FDA approves HCG for fertility treatments

1980s

Adopted in bodybuilding for post-cycle therapy (PCT)

2010s

Becomes standard co-prescription with testosterone replacement therapy

2020

FDA restricts compounded HCG; later partially reversed

HCG and TRT

When a man takes exogenous testosterone, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis detects elevated testosterone and shuts down LH production. Without LH signalling, the testes stop producing testosterone and sperm - leading to testicular atrophy and infertility. HCG replaces the missing LH signal, keeping the testes active. Most TRT clinics prescribe 250–500 IU of HCG three times per week alongside testosterone to prevent these effects.

Reconstitution

HCG typically comes in 5000 IU or 10000 IU vials. Reconstitute with the included bacteriostatic water. For a 5000 IU vial with 2 mL water: each 0.1 mL (10 units on insulin syringe) = 250 IU. Store reconstituted HCG at 2–8°C and use within 30 days.

Recommended products

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Core Supplies

Bacteriostatic Water 30mL

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Storage & Transport

Portable Insulin Cooler Fridge

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Further Reading

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References

  1. [1]Coviello AD, et al. 'Effects of graded doses of testosterone on erythropoiesis in healthy young and older men.' Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2008.
  2. [2]Lee JA, Ramasamy R. 'Indications for the use of human chorionic gonadotropic hormone for the management of infertility in hypogonadal men.' Translational Andrology and Urology, 2018.

Frequently asked questions

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Supplies

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Guides

How-to guides

Storage, reconstitution, and travel

Disclaimer: This guide is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. The dosing protocols listed are sourced from published research and community reports and do not constitute a recommendation. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any peptide. Check your local regulations regarding peptide purchase and use.