Taking human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) with testosterone therapy can help maintain testicular size and function. When taking exogenous testosterone, the testes often shut down their natural production of testosterone. This can lead to testicular atrophy, or shrinking of the testicles. hCG mimics the action of luteinizing hormone (LH) in the body. LH signals the testes to produce testosterone. By taking small doses of hCG along with testosterone therapy, you can keep the testicles working which maintains their size and function.
Some key benefits of adding hCG to testosterone therapy include:
- Preserving fertility - By maintaining testicular function, taking hCG with testosterone makes it more likely you will remain fertile. If fertility is a concern, hCG can help keep sperm production intact.
- Preventing testicular atrophy - As mentioned, hCG will help keep the testes from shrinking down due to inactivity when taking testosterone therapy. Some men are disturbed by the aesthetic effects of testicular shrinking. hCG helps counteract this.
- Maintaining intratesticular testosterone - Intratesticular testosterone is important for sperm production and development. hCG helps maintain normal intratesticular T levels.
- Preserving hormonal balance - The testes produce more than just testosterone. Taking hCG helps maintain production of other important hormones and factors that play roles in bodily functions outside of reproduction.
The most common protocol is to take 500 IU of hCG twice per week alongside testosterone therapy. This is a fairly conservative dosage that in most men can stave off testicular atrophy and preserve fertility. Some men need higher doses of up to 1,000 IU twice weekly to get the full desired benefits.
It's important when running hCG with testosterone to monitor your total T and
estrogen levels.
hCG can raise both testosterone and estrogen levels, so adjustments to your testosterone dose may be needed to keep hormone levels in the optimal range when adding in hCG. Getting followup bloodwork 4-6 weeks after making any changes to your regimen is advisable.
When it comes to fertility, hCG can help
preserve sperm production and motility. However, it does not guarantee fertility preservation 100%. The only sure way to maintain fertility for the future is to bank sperm prior to starting testosterone therapy. hCG makes it more likely, but not certain, that you will remain fertile on testosterone therapy. Still, many men take hCG monotherapy, without testosterone, specifically for the purpose of keeping sperm production intact.
In most men, hCG is very well tolerated. When side effects occur, they are typically related to the hormone fluctuations that occur. High estrogen is the most common since hCG indirectly raises testosterone levels. Side effects may include tender or sensitive nipples, mild fluid retention, and moodiness. Adjusting the testosterone dosage can often minimize side effects from hCG.
hCG requires injections, typically with small insulin syringes into the subcutaneous fat of the abdomen, thighs, or hips. Some compounding pharmacies offer oral preparations of hCG but injections tend to be more reliable. Since hCG must be refrigerated after mixing, injections allow for more precise dosing and reduced waste.
hCG comes in powder form and must be reconstituted with bacteriostatic water. An insulin syringe is used to mix the powder and water. Once reconstituted, hCG must be kept refrigerated. It can typically be stored for up to 6 weeks refrigerated before losing potency. When injecting, it helps to alternate sides of the abdomen and rotate spots to minimize irritation and lumps.
In summary, hCG can provide substantial benefits for men on testosterone therapy. The most obvious effects are helping maintain testicular size and preserving fertility. However, hCG also helps sustain the complex hormonal environment in the testes and preserves overall health and function. While not imperative, adding hCG provides advantages over testosterone therapy alone for many men.
If you are considering hCG as part of a testosterone replacement protocol, the physicians at Harmony Hormone Clinic have extensive experience in treating men's hormone imbalances. We provide customized therapy based on your health history, needs, and goals. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
