What is hCG?
“Do I need hCG on TRT?” Well let me tell you what it is first. HCG is Human Chorionic Gonadotropin. It’s used within the medical world in both males and females. For this entry, we’ll focus on the male usage, namely its function within testosterone replacement therapy.
What does hCG do?
Simply put, hCG mimics leutenizing hormone (LH). LH stimulates your Leydig cells and is a precursor to testosterone production. When you introduce exogenous testosterone, your natural production of testosterone shuts down. Your hypothalamic pituitary axis (HPTA) produces less LH. hCG continues your natural production by continuing the LH production. In doing so it keeps your cortisol, dhea, and TSH running correctly. (in theory, it balances your HPTA)
What happens without hCG?
Many men undergo testosterone replacement therapy without hCG. Physically, they will notice testicular atrophy (your testes will shrink) and possibly mild to severe aching of their testes. In addition, without LH your HPTA will not function properly. They may also notice that they need to increase their testosterone dosage after a few weeks of treatment. (when you take your first labs your numbers will be elevated, but after your natural testosterone production shuts down, you’ll need more exogenous testosterone to maintain your optimal levels)
What are the benefits of hCG?
The aesthetic benefits are maintaining testicular size. The medical benefits are that your LH production continues which allows for your HPTA to align properly. If you plan on having children, hCG is a must.
What will I notice on hCG?
You’ll notice that your testicals return to normal size. You may have an overall feeling of well-being. In most cases you’ll have more energy than treating without because your HPTA continues to function as expected. You may notice an increase in E2, which we should all know by now isn’t good, but can be managed. Overall, it’s about education. You should know what it is and be able to decide for yourself if you need it. It may make “dialing in” your protocol more difficult, but a lot of guys feel better with it. My personal view is adapting from “hCG is a must” to “I personally find benefit in cycling it, but it’s not for everyone.” You can listen to our hCG episode of the All Things Testosterone Podcast HERE.
