Description
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy, often called the “pregnancy hormone,” which supports the corpus luteum and sustains early pregnancy. It is used in pregnancy tests, to treat infertility in women (triggering ovulation), and for hypogonadism in men, with potential side effects including headache, fatigue, and injection site pain. hCG levels typically double every 48-72 hours in early pregnancy, peaking around 8–11 weeks, with low levels potentially indicating miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
What is the Purpose and Use of hCG?
Pregnancy Support: Produced by the placenta shortly after implantation, hCG signals the body to stop menstruation and increases progesterone/estrogen production to maintain the uterine lining.
Fertility Treatment: Used to trigger ovulation in women and to stimulate testosterone and sperm production in men with hypogonadism.
Diagnostic Tool: Detects pregnancy via urine or blood tests (often detected 11-14 days after conception). It is also used to screen for Down syndrome and detect abnormal pregnancies (molar or ectopic)
