Human chorionic gonadotropin or HCG is a hormone that is used to support normal egg development in women.  The substance also stimulates the release of the egg during ovulation and can treat female infertility.  HGC is also used to help young males that have undescended testicles, which can be due to a pituitary gland disorder.  HCG can also be used for various other reasons as determined by a physician, but should never be used without a prescription or for reasons other than intended.

When a couple has been trying to conceive for quite some time, there are physicians which will recommend the use of HGC to prevent miscarriage if a woman does become pregnant.  Some women using HGC will develop ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome which can be life threatening.  Use of HGC requires careful monitoring and regular evaluation by a medical professional in order to make sure the woman is healthy and nothing is going wrong.

As with any medication human chorionic gonadotropin side effects can occur in a person taking the medication.  Such side effects can include, but are not limited to the following:

  • Depression
  • Tiredness
  • Headache
  • Restlessness
  • Pain at injection site
  • Irritability
  • Facial hair, voice changes and/or acne
  • Edema
  • Mental/mood swings
  • Abdominal swelling/pressure/pain
  • Allergic reaction
  • Rash
  • Itching
  • Dizziness
  • Trouble breathing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • Weakness on one side of the body
  • Confusion

When trying to conceive a baby, a couple is willing to do anything at all and that can include taking hormones like HGC.  While the journey to parenthood will be easy for some, there are others that will experience fertility problems and need reproduction assistance in order to make it happen.

As with any medication, there are human chorionic gonadotropin side effects which need to be taken into consideration.  Under the expertise and guidance of a medical specialist, a woman can safely take the medication and prevent any bothersome or serious side effects from occurring.  A woman should never take HCG without a prescription and never share the drug with anyone else.