HCG Injection for Pregnancy: A Complete Guide to Fertility, Dosage, and Safety

HCG,  or human chorionic gonadotropin injections, are hormonal shots that can increase the chances of getting pregnant, help produce testosterone and sperm, as well as treat a condition called cryptorchidism, a condition that affects the testes. 

As these injections directly influence the reproductive hormones, their usage requires proper medical prescription and supervision to ensure safety and effectiveness during the treatment. In this article, we will be discussing the nuances of this hormonal injection, including the usage time, dosage, and use cases, along with the benefits, side effects, and precautions to be taken.

What is an HCG Injection?

A critical component of fertility treatments, human chorionic gonadotropin injections, popularly known as HCG injections, are used to stimulate the ovulation process in people trying fertility treatment to get pregnant. 

HCG hormones are produced by the human body, by specialized cells known as the trophoblasts, during early pregnancy, helping in the thickening of the uterine lining, and by the placenta at a later stage. Upon the body’s failure to produce these hormones, a woman can’t get pregnant naturally, and would require these hormonal injections to stimulate the ovarian functions. 

Some of the commonly available brands of these prescription-only medications are Novarel, Ovidrel, Chorex, Profasi, and Pregnyl. 

How Does HCG Injection Work?

Also known as trigger shots, these are among the most time-sensitive medications used in the IVF treatment. These hormonal shots mimic the natural process of the Luteinizing Hormone surge, which usually helps in the maturation of the egg and the ovulation process. These ovulation-triggering injections also induce pregnancy by increasing the levels of progesterone. 

In men, these hormones cause the production and release of androgen hormones, such as testosterone. These androgens are responsible for the movement of the testes to the scrotum and sperm production. 

Use of HCG Injection in Pregnancy and Fertility

These hormones, in women, supports the normal development of an egg in the ovary and stimulate the release of the mature egg through ovulation, and thereby increase the chances of pregnancy. Sometimes, these hormones are also used in IUI (intrauterine insemination) cycles of fertility treatments. 

The hormone injections can also be administered to men who are suffering from low sperm count and are unable to conceive. Hypogonadism or improper functioning of the male reproductive organs can inhibit the production of sex hormones required for fertility. The HCG injections can increase testosterone production and improve sperm production, thereby reducing the risk of infertility. 

When Is HCG Injection Recommended?

In case of many failed attempts at conceiving successfully, doctors might recommend HCG injections, based on your type of infertility. These are usually recommended during the ovulation period, which occurs 12 to 16 days before the next menstruation. 

Hence, the doctors will examine the follicles through ultrasound scanning and will inject the HCG if the follicles have reached a suitable size. And it is advisable to have intercourse every other day for 3-4 days after the administration of the hormone to increase the chance of getting pregnant. 

Dosage and Administration

The dosage of the HCG injection completely depends on the patient’s requirements, and would be calculated on the basis of the type and extent of infertility. The dose and timing of the injection will be assessed by the doctor. 

Based on the case of infertility, either the HCG hormones will be used alone or along with other fertility drugs. The usual injection dose ranges between 5,000 to 10,000 units of HCG, administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly. 

Benefits of HCG Injection

HCG injections help infertile individuals to overcome their condition and successfully conceive. 

• Ovulation Stimulation: HCG injections induce ovulation in women, creating a clear conception window, thereby increasing the chance of getting pregnant. 
• Viability Enhancement of the Eggs: HCG hormones support the maturation of the egg, which in turn increases the chance of successful fertilization. 
• Increased Sperm Count: Administration of HCG hormones can increase the testosterone levels, and thereby increase the quality and quantity of the sperm. 
• Supporting ART Treatments: HCG is commonly used in IVF and IUI cycles to increase the probability of a successful treatment outcome. 

Side Effects and Risks

• Mild pain, redness, or swelling in the area of injection.
• Tenderness or swelling of the breasts.
• Bloating or abdominal cramps.
• In extreme cases, Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome may be noted. 
• Shortness of breath and chest pain. 
• Facial hair growth, deepening of the voice, acne, mood swings, gynecomastia, early onset of menstruation, and enlarged testicles. 
• Agitation and irritation.
• Fatigue and headache.
• Allergic reactions like rashes, itching, or swelling.

Precautions and Contraindications

• Avoid the medication if you are having early puberty, hormonal cancers, ovarian cysts, cancer in the reproductive organs, uncontrolled thyroid, unknown vaginal bleeding, etc.
• You are not supposed to take the medication if you are currently pregnant. 
• Discuss your allergies and other medical conditions with the doctor, if any. 
• Prioritize a balanced diet and minimize the consumption of unhealthy fats.
• Manage stress and control alcohol and caffeine intake, as these can affect ovulation. 

Conclusion

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) injections play a crucial role in fertility treatments by enhancing the chances of conception. These hormonal injections trigger ovulation, support egg maturation, and ensure the optimal conditions for fertilization of the egg and implantation of the embryo. 

And the most important factor affecting the success rate of the HCG injection is the accurate timing. Making changes in unhealthy lifestyles is also necessary for the medication to work properly.

Frequently Asked Questions