HCG acts like Luteinizing Hormone and stimulates the Leydig cells in the testicles to produce testosterone and sperm. It is a powerful fertility treatment in men with primary or secondary hypogonadism.
It can also help address underlying conditions that may be impacting your sperm count. However, it is not a stand-alone solution and must be used in conjunction with other treatments.
How Does HCG Work?
HCG is a hormone produced during pregnancy to help trigger the release of progesterone, which in turn helps sustain the uterus lining. It is also used as a fertility treatment in both men and women, because it can help stimulate ovulation and increase testosterone and sperm production in the testes. This is especially beneficial in those with low sperm count or poor sperm motility. It is typically given as a series of injections, which can be administered over weeks or months.
In men, HCG works much like the luteinizing hormone (LH) that stimulates the Leydig cells in the testicles to produce testosterone and sperm. It stimulates sperm production within structures in the testicles called seminiferous tubules. In addition, it increases the size of the testicles, and can reverse some of the testicular shrinkage caused by steroids. HCG is often used in combination with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) to prevent or reverse the decline in sperm count and quality that can occur as a result of TRT.
In azoospermic patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (low FSH and LH levels due to pituitary or hypothalamic problems), HCG is used alone or in conjunction with testosterone replacement therapy to preserve sperm production by stimulating Leydig cell function. In these cases, the men are required to take hCG thrice weekly and may require several months for their sperm counts and motility to improve.
How Does HCG Boost Sperm Count?
Men who have low sperm count may benefit from HCG therapy. The hormone stimulates the production of testosterone, which helps to increase sperm count and motility. This treatment is typically administered in the form of injections. In addition, the hormone can also help to stimulate ovulation in women. This can improve fertility and lead to a successful pregnancy.
However, it is important to note that sperm count increases due to HCG are not permanent. Many factors can impact sperm count and motility, including age, genetics, lifestyle choices, and medical conditions. Therefore, it is essential to determine the underlying cause of low sperm count before beginning any type of treatment.
In one study, men who had azoospermia (zero sperm count) due to hypogonadotropic hypogonadism experienced a return of sperm production within 6 months of starting hCG treatment. This was accompanied by increased testicular size and normal serum testosterone levels. In these cases, a combination of HCG and HMG was used, with both being given thrice a week for 6 months.
However, it is important to understand that this type of therapy is not effective in the vast majority of cases of low sperm count. There are other treatments that can be considered, including lifestyle changes, fertility medications, and surgical intervention. A fertility specialist can help patients find the best treatment option for their specific situation.
How Long Does HCG Take to Work?
HCG is available by prescription and can be used along with a wide variety of other fertility treatments. However, it’s important to understand that it isn’t a cure-all for male infertility and is only one part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Your fertility specialist will evaluate your needs and determine whether or not this treatment is right for you.
Men with low testosterone and a sperm count below a minimum threshold can benefit from HCG therapy, particularly those with secondary hypogonadism. Because it mimics luteinizing hormone (LH), it prompts Leydig cells in the testicles to produce testosterone, which increases sperm production. It also stimulates production of sperm within structures called seminiferous tubules.
In addition to boosting sperm production, it can also increase sperm motility. This is useful for couples who want to try intracytoplasmic sperm injection or in vitro fertilization.
Like clomiphene and anastrazole, it must be given via injection and typically on a three-times-per-week schedule. However, it’s more expensive than these oral medications and usually requires combination therapy with a gonadotropin stimulating medication such as human menopausal gonadotropin (HMG).
Although HCG is highly effective in increasing sperm counts, it doesn’t boost conception rates for all patients. A variety of underlying health and fertility issues can impact pregnancy rates, including age, health history, and other lifestyle factors. To maximize your chances of conceiving, it’s critical to make lifestyle changes and undergo a thorough evaluation of your health and fertility.
How Long Does HCG Last?
During a pregnancy, hCG supports the growth of an egg inside the ovary and triggers it to release when ready. It also appears on a pregnancy test, which is why it is known as the “pregnancy hormone.” HCG levels are highest towards the end of the first trimester and then decline for the remainder of the gestation period.
Men can use hCG injections as part of an assisted reproductive technology, or IVF, cycle to increase their chances of conceiving. It can be administered by a fertility specialist directly into the woman’s uterus to stimulate the ovaries and prepare an egg for fertilization. This technique is called intrauterine insemination, or IUI.
In some cases, HCG can be combined with HMG (human chorionic gonadotrophin-medroxyprogesterone) to enhance sperm production in men with the condition hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. In this case, combination treatment involves HCG and HMG administered thrice per week for six months to stimulate the testes to produce more testosterone.
HCG is a powerful fertility treatment, but it’s not an effective solution for all cases of low sperm count. Alternative treatment options include lifestyle changes, fertility medications, and surgical intervention. It’s essential to speak with a medical professional about the best course of action for your situation and goals. Doing so will ensure that you receive the correct dosage and schedule of HCG therapy to boost sperm count effectively.
