All You Need to Know About HCG

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a hormone that plays a crucial role in pregnancy and has various medical applications. Here’s a summary of all you might need to know about HCG.

What is HCG?

HCG is a hormone produced primarily by the placenta during pregnancy. It is detectable in the blood and urine of pregnant women and is the hormone that pregnancy tests detect.

Functions of HCG

1. Supporting Pregnancy

HCG helps maintain the corpus luteum, which in turn produces progesterone during the early stages of pregnancy. Progesterone is vital for maintaining the uterine lining and supporting the developing embryo during early pregnancy.

2. Fetal Development

HCG supports the growth and development of the fetus by promoting the production of other essential hormones.

Medical Uses of HCG

1. Fertility Treatments

HCG is used in fertility treatments to stimulate ovulation in women. It mimics luteinizing hormone (LH), triggering the release of egg from the ovary.

2. Hormone Treatment

In men, HCG can be used to treat hypogonadism by stimulating testosterone production. It is also used in boys with delayed puberty to stimulate the production of male sex hormones.

3. Tumor Marker

Elevated levels of HCG can indicate certain types of cancers, such as trophoblastic tumors and testicular cancer. Hence, HCG levels are sometimes measured in cancer screening and follow up.

HCG can be administered ans injection, either intramuscularly or subcutaneously. The method and dosage depend on the specific medical condition being treated.

Potential Side Effects

Like any medication, HCG can have side effects, including:

- Headache

- Fatigue

- Depression/mood swings

- Irritability

- Injection site pain

- Risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in women undergoing fertility treatments

HCG is a multifunctional hormone with critical roles in pregnancy and various medical treatments. While it offers significant benefits in fertility treatments and certain hormonal therapies, its use, particularly in weight loss, should be approached with caution.

Comments

How to detox safely after food binge?

Did you happen to finish off the potato chips, large pizza, ice cream and that bottle of wine all by yourself this weekend? The fallout of binge earing is not just tummy discomfort. The guilt and regret can be overwhelming. Periodic binge eating is quite common and the good news is, there are safe ways to help your body recover. 1. Be kind to yourself Do not beat yourself up for eating a little extra. Don’t go and step on the weighing scale. It is likely you will see slightly higher numbers and thats not an information which is going to help. 2. Drink up more water Water helps remove any excesses from the body, helps in digestion, helps get rid of water retention following excess salt intake and is good for skin, teeth and kidneys. 3. Get moving Physical activity increases gut motility to push all of that extra junk- the calories, the fat, and the sugars, out of the system. Movement also triggers the brain to release dopamine and serotonin, feel-good hormones that can boost your mood a...

Ovarian Cysts: Your No-Nonsense Guide to Understanding, Symptoms & Solutions

Ovarian cysts are a common occurrence for many women, often causing a mix of confusion and concern. While the term "cyst" might sound alarming, most ovarian cysts are benign (non-cancerous) and resolve on their own. However, understanding their symptoms, how they're diagnosed, and the available treatment options is crucial for your peace of mind and overall health. What Exactly Are Ovarian Cysts? An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac or pocket within or on the surface of an ovary. Ovaries are small, almond-shaped organs on each side of the uterus that produce eggs and hormones (estrogen and progesterone). Most cysts develop as a normal part of your menstrual cycle and are known as "functional cysts." Less commonly, cysts can be caused by other conditions or develop for reasons unrelated to the menstrual cycle. Recognizing the Symptoms: When to Pay Attention Often, ovarian cysts cause no symptoms at all and are discovered incidentally during a pelvic exam or im...

Endometriosis: Breaking the Silence on Chronic Pain

Endometriosis is more than just painful periods—it is a chronic condition affecting 1 in 10 women worldwide. Despite its prevalence, it is often misdiagnosed or dismissed as “just bad cramps.” Let’s break the silence, debunk myths, and empower women with the right information. If you or someone you know struggles with unexplained pelvic pain, this blog is for you. Understanding Endometriosis Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the uterus lining grows outside the uterus . This leads to chronic inflammation, scarring, and, in some cases, fertility issues. The symptoms can vary, but some common signs include: Severe menstrual cramps that interfere with daily activities Pain during or after intercourse Chronic bloating, often referred to as “endo belly” Heavy or irregular menstrual bleeding Difficulty getting pregnant If these symptoms persist, it is essential to seek medical advice rather than dismiss them as normal period pain. Common Myths and Facts Myth: “Endometriosis is j...

Search This Blog