We would be neutral on HCG with TRT if not for fertility. There is no long term side effect from using HCG all the time, so there's not a medical reason to not use it. However there is also not very m... See Full Answer
There can be some. Some men have reported having better Estrogen levels or having it help with libido while on TRT. From our viewpoint though, when you mix Testosterone with HCG, Testosterone is going... See Full Answer
Pros: Maintain what testicular function you had prior to starting TRT Maintain fertility Maintain the steroid hormone cascade with ample pregnenolone (which has various subtle positive effects) Cons: ... See Full Answer
At AlphaMD, we're here to help. Feel free to ask us any question you would like about TRT, medical weightloss, ED, or other topics related to men's health. Or take a moment to browse through our past questions.
When men begin testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), they often hear about potential changes to testicular size. One of the key considerations for many is how human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) could help maintain or restore testicular size and function. In this article, we will explore what happens to testicles before and after using hCG, how hCG works, and the role it may play in supporting male reproductive health. While hCG is most commonly discussed in men’s health contexts, remember that hormone-related therapies can be relevant to women’s health as well.
The testicles have two main jobs:
Under normal circumstances, the pituitary gland releases luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). LH signals the testicles to produce testosterone, while FSH is crucial for sperm production. When someone is on TRT—particularly if using exogenous (external) testosterone—natural production of these hormones in the body may decrease. This can lead to lowered testicular stimulation and, subsequently, decreased testicular size (also called testicular atrophy).
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone produced during pregnancy and is structurally similar to LH. Because of its similarity to LH, hCG can “trick” the testicles into continuing or increasing their testosterone production. As a result, men on TRT who also use hCG may experience less testicular shrinkage or, in some cases, a reversal of testicular atrophy.
Before hCG:
After hCG:
Not every individual responds identically, and results can vary based on dosage, genetics, lifestyle, and overall health. However, a significant number of men on TRT who incorporate hCG report a difference when looking at “hcg testicle size before and after” their therapy.
Testicular atrophy on TRT is closely linked to reduced stimulation by LH. When you administer synthetic testosterone, the pituitary gland senses high testosterone levels and reduces or halts LH and FSH production. In turn, your testicles aren’t signaled to make testosterone or sperm—leading to shrinkage.
hCG steps in as a stand-in for LH. By binding to the same receptors as LH, hCG sends a similar message: “Produce testosterone.” This not only helps maintain testicular size but can also help maintain some level of fertility if dosed correctly and combined with other supportive measures.
Fertility Support:
Improved Sense of Well-Being:
Hormone Balance:
Hormone Fluctuations:
Cost and Convenience:
Individual Response:
Women and hCG:
Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for personalized guidance on hormone therapies, including hCG. Dosage and frequency should be determined by a medical professional with a thorough understanding of your current hormone levels, medical history, and health goals.
Most commonly, men add hCG to their TRT protocol to mitigate testicular shrinkage and support fertility. However, some individuals may also combine hCG with:
Each of these additions has its own benefits, drawbacks, and indications. Careful oversight by a trained medical professional is critical.
For men undergoing testosterone replacement therapy, hcg testicle size before and after treatment can represent a noticeable and important shift in overall reproductive health. hCG can help mitigate or reverse testicular shrinkage by simulating the effect of LH, thereby helping maintain sperm production and testicular function. However, incorporating hCG isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It should be tailored to each person’s needs, goals, and medical background.
At AlphaMD, we're here to help. Feel free to ask us any question you would like about TRT, medical weightloss, ED, or other topics related to men's health. Or take a moment to browse through our past questions.
We would be neutral on HCG with TRT if not for fertility. There is no long term side effect from using HCG all the time, so there's not a medical reason to not use it. However there is also not very m... See Full Answer
There can be some. Some men have reported having better Estrogen levels or having it help with libido while on TRT. From our viewpoint though, when you mix Testosterone with HCG, Testosterone is going... See Full Answer
Pros: Maintain what testicular function you had prior to starting TRT Maintain fertility Maintain the steroid hormone cascade with ample pregnenolone (which has various subtle positive effects) Cons: ... See Full Answer
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