HCG

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

HCG or Human Chorionic Gonadotropin is a hormone produced by the placenta after implantation. The presence of HCG is detected in some pregnancy tests (HCG pregnancy strip tests).

Overview[edit | edit source]

HCG is not only produced during pregnancy but also in rare cases of certain diseases such as certain types of cancer like testicular cancer, ovarian cancer, and trophoblastic disease.

Function[edit | edit source]

HCG stimulates the ovary to produce progesterone. This hormone is necessary to maintain a pregnancy in the early weeks and months.

Medical Uses[edit | edit source]

HCG is used in fertility treatments for both men and women. It can stimulate the testes to produce more testosterone and the ovaries to release eggs.

Side Effects[edit | edit source]

Some people may have an allergic reaction to HCG. Other side effects can include headache, irritability, restlessness, depression, fatigue, and swelling of the feet or ankles.

See Also[edit | edit source]

HCG Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD