hCG for Testosterone & Fertility Support — Reproduction
Human chorionic gonadotropin for maintaining natural testosterone production, fertility, and testicular function during hormone therapy.
Overview
hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) mimics luteinizing hormone (LH) to stimulate the testes to produce testosterone naturally. It's FDA-approved and essential for men on TRT who want to preserve fertility, prevent testicular atrophy, maintain intratesticular testosterone, and support the body's natural hormone production pathways.
Indications
- Fertility preservation during testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)
- Prevention of testicular atrophy on TRT or anabolic cycles
- Maintenance of natural testosterone production
- Post-cycle therapy (PCT) to restore HPTA function
- Primary hypogonadism treatment
- Supporting natural hormone balance and well-being on TRT
Mechanism of Action
Exogenous testosterone suppresses pituitary LH secretion, causing testicular atrophy and reduced fertility
Dosing
| Compound | Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| hCG | 250-500 IU | 2-3x weekly (e.g., Mon/Wed/Fri or Mon/Thurs) | Maintains testicular function and fertility on TRT, prevents atrophy |
| hCG | 100-200 IU | Daily or every other day (EOD) | Micro-dosing approach, more physiological LH mimicry, less aromatization |
| hCG | 500-1000 IU | 3x weekly | Higher dose for men actively trying to conceive while on TRT |
| hCG | 1000-2000 IU | Every other day for 2-3 weeks | Restarts natural testosterone production after cycle, use before SERMs |
| hCG | 1500-2500 IU | 2-3x weekly | hCG-only protocol for men who want to avoid TRT while boosting testosterone |
Evidence Grade
GRADE B
Safety & Contraindications
- FDA-approved for hypogonadism and fertility with established safety
- May increase estrogen (aromatizes to E2) - monitor estradiol levels
- Can desensitize Leydig cells if dosed too frequently or at high doses
- Contraindicated in prostate cancer, breast cancer, or hormone-sensitive tumors
- May cause temporary water retention and gynecomastia if E2 not managed
- Use with aromatase inhibitor if estrogen conversion becomes problematic